CVD caused an estimated 17.9 million deaths throughout the world in 2019. These accounted for 32% of all global deaths, of which 85% were due to heart attack and stroke.1
There are a number of key risk factors for heart attack and stroke, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, smoking, weight, and waist size.2
In order to mitigate its global impact, it’s important to detect CVD as early as possible so that appropriate treatment can begin.1
Obesity is closely linked to CVD, with the risk of CVD rising as body mass index (BMI) increases.6 Obesity also accelerates the progression of other well-known risk factors for CVD, including increased blood pressure and cholesterol.4
The image shown is a model and not a real patient.
A joint review by the World Heart Federation and World Obesity Federation identified key obesityrelated cardiovascular (CV) complications:8
Despite attempts to reduce CV risk factors, people with obesity may still retain residual CV risk. Efforts to reduce this risk should focus on reducing systemic inflammation that contributes to the development of CV diseases.9-11
Effective weight management is therefore essential to improve CV outcomes in people with obesity.12 This involves prescribing appropriate lifestyle changes and evidence-based medical interventions that directly impact CVD risk factors.13*
International guidelines now emphasise the importance of a healthy lifestyle and managing any risk factors for the treatment of CVD and obesity. 1,4,16 It is therefore key to develop a holistic approach that focuses on the underlying metabolic issues driving both obesity and CVD. 17
Obesity is also a major risk factor for HFpEF, a comorbidity frequently seen in those with obesity.18 People with obesity-related HFpEF often experience increased physical limitations that result in a reduced quality of life.19
Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach that positively impacts key factors contributing to HFpEF is crucial for optimising treatment.19-21
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*The information on this page is intended to support clinical understanding. Treatment decisions should be made based on individual patient needs and clinical judgement.
HQ25OB00130 | Approved August 2025
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