Clinical and Humanistic Burden of Adult Obesity in Asia–Pacific: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity continues to be an increasing global health concern. However, the burden of obesity within the Asia–Pacific (APAC) region is less well defined relative to Western countries. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted to characterise disease burden in people with obesity within the APAC region (defined as body mass index of ≥ 30 kg/m2 in Australia and Taiwan, ≥ 28 kg/m2 in China, and ≥ 25 kg/m2 in Japan, Korea, and Hong Kong). The presence of obesity-related complications and impact of obesity on patient-reported outcomes is described. Results: Complications were reported at significantly higher rates in people with obesity compared to people with a normal weight. Diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and cardiovascular diseases were the most frequently reported obesity-related complications, and rates among people with obesity were as high as 57%, 72%, 65%, and 23% respectively. Low scores on patient-reported outcome measures indicated reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among people with obesity, with lower HRQoL in those with a higher obesity class. Psychological distress was also elevated in people with obesity which persisted despite treatment. Conclusion: Despite variation in the definition of obesity across countries in the APAC region, obesity was consistently associated with notable presence of related metabolic, cardiovascular, and psychological complications. Obesity substantially impacts psychosocial and emotional wellbeing and is associated with a reduced HRQoL in people with obesity. This highlights the need to proactively recognise and manage obesity as a chronic relapsing disease to improve the health of people with obesity. Further research is warranted to address identified evidence gaps in the APAC region.