Obesity and lifespan, a complex tango

Abstract

Obesity and aging share comorbidities, phenotypes, and deleterious effects on health that are associated with chronic diseases. However, distinct features set them apart, with underlying biology that should be explored and exploited, especially given the demographic shifts and the obesity epidemic that the world is facing.

Fig. 1.. Molecular and physiological similarities between obesity and aging.

Shown is a schematic depiction of how aging and obesity are associated with similar molecular changes, increase the severity of common diseases, and together promote the development of sarcopenic obesity. CVD, cardiovascular disease; MASLD, metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease.

Fig. 2.. Ways in which different antiobesity and antiaging therapies affect body weight, healthspan, and lifespan.

Schematic representation of pharmacological (GLP-1 RAs and acarbose), nutritional (caloric restriction and isocaloric ketogenic diet), and lifestyle (exercise) interventions targeting adiposity and longevity.