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Obesity: what is it?

Since 2008, the Obesity Society has argued that obesity should be viewed as a disease, a chronic pathology characterized by excess fat mass that, over time, leads to structural and functional changes in the body, thereby increasing the risk of developing other diseases responsible for early morbidity and mortality:

  • diabetes mellitus;
  • high blood pressure;
  • dyslipidemia;
  • hepatic steatosis;
  • osteoarticular pathology;
  • lipedema;
  • asthma;
  • sleep apnea;
  • increased risk of certain cancers.
Obesity: Causes

Obesity: Causes

Obesity is associated with genetic and hereditary factors, as well as environmental and behavioral factors. It is also thought to be associated with changes in neural processes (psychological processes that occur in the brain and may determine this prevalent disease).

It should be evaluated in an Endocrinology consultation to determine the etiology (cause), as well as the treatment to follow. 

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Obesity: treatment

 Obesity is characterized by several clinical presentations that justify different treatments, deserving an individualized hormonal check-up and a personalized, multidisciplinary approach focused on each individual.

People suffering from this disease need medical help, not stigmatization. Obesity contributes to a decrease in life expectancy, not only because of itself, but because, as an inflammatory disease, it triggers many other illnesses.

Medical Specialist
in Obesity

Dr. Selma Souto

  • She has a degree in Medicine with a specialization in Endocrinology and Nutrition.
  • She was a guest lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto.
  • He is currently Vice-President of the Portuguese Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (2024-2026).
  • He is a member of several national and international scientific societies in the field of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity.
  • Author and co-author of more than 20 book chapters in the area of Obesity and Diabetes.
See Full Biography
Dr. Selma Souto

Medical Specialist
in Obesity

Dr. Rosa Dantas

  • She has a degree in Medicine with a specialization in Endocrinology and Nutrition.
  • He holds the degree of Consultant in Endocrinology and Nutrition.
  • She is a researcher in national and international clinical research projects.
  • Author and co-author of scientific articles published in national and international journals.
  • He is a member of several national and international scientific societies in the field of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity.
See Full Biography
Dr. Rosa Dantas

Frequently Asked Questions about Obesity

1

What is the difference between an endocrinologist and a nutritionist when it comes to obesity?

An endocrinologist is the doctor responsible for hormonal evaluation and the evaluation of other diseases associated with obesity.

The endocrinologist takes the clinical history, performs an objective examination, requests additional diagnostic tests, diagnoses and prescribes medication, depending on each case.

The nutritionist prepares an individualized and personalized eating plan.
Therefore, both complement each other but one is not exhausted by the other.

2

Do obese people have to take medication for life?

This is a difficult question. We know that there are cases where patients actually need to take medication for their entire lives, even to prevent weight regain.

On the other hand, there are cases where people take medication for certain periods of time and then stop, without regaining weight. It all depends on the situation and the individual.

What we know is that medical and nutritional monitoring must be carried out for life and that the secret lies in the permanent adoption of healthy lifestyle habits. 

If necessary, yes, maintain the drugs (if it is a disease, then yes, we must treat it with all possible weapons and drugs are powerful weapons that can make all the difference). 

3

Will I gain all the weight back after stopping the medication?

If you stop taking medication without a doctor's recommendation and, above all, if you return to the old lifestyle habits that made you gain weight, then yes, you will gain all the weight back and often even some more.

If the medication is discontinued under medical supervision, if everything is fine in terms of health and if you have established healthy lifestyle habits and strategies to avoid gaining weight again, then there is no reason for this to happen again (especially if you continue to follow your doctor).

4

What is the best treatment for obesity?

The best treatment for obesity is one that is personalized, individualized, and adapted to each person and situation.

5

Can I schedule an Endocrinology teleconsultation?

Yes, you can schedule an endocrinology appointment online. Simply contact Allure Clinic.