Obesity-diabetes-endocrinopathy – the metabolic connection

Abstract

Introduction and aim. The article outlines the mechanisms of interrelationships between obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain disorders of the endocrine system. The paper explains how insulin resistance develops, which is a key link between obesity and several related disorders, how hypercortisolemia leads to the development of obesity and glucose intolerance, why thyroid dysfunctions are bidirectionally associated with metabolic disturbances, in what way excessive body weight leads to the hypogonadism in men, or how menopause promotes the development of abdominal obesity, carbohydrate intolerance and, in some cases type 2 diabetes. Material and methods. Scientific articles were reviewed by searching for information using the online database with scientific articles, including PubMed, Google Scholar and other available scientific databases. Analysis of the literature. The huge prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and hormonal disorders (e.g., autoimmune thyroid disease, female and male hypogonadism) over the contemporary world together with the serious health consequences of these conditions makes up a specific triangle of metabolic connections, increasingly absorbing the human, organizational and financial resources of health systems. Conclusion. Recognizing the relationship between the components of this triangle and understanding the risks arising from this phenomenon may allow to effectively reduce its impact on our health.