Recent Advances in Obesity Research

Endocrinologists play an integral role in the study of obesity. In addition to being on the forefront of medical research into the mechanisms of metabolism, appetite and satiety, endocrine researchers provide groundbreaking clarification and innovation in diagnosis, management and treatment of obesity. As the primary researchers in obesity, the role of the endocrinologist can be described as practicing medicine from “bench to bedside” – defining underlying causes and effects of obesity through research and translating those findings into management and treatment regimens.

Currently, endocrine researchers are leading the charge in examining and evaluating the continued safety and efficacy of common obesity medications, such as sibutramine, and treatments of the future such as buproprion and rimonabant.

Through basic and clinical obesity research examining the links between obesity and other serious medical conditions such as diabetes, the metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disease (e.g.hypothyroidism), endocrinologists are reaching a better understanding of obesity and its impact on all aspects of a person’s health. Studies into why certain groups of people are genetically predisposed to obesity are also aiding endocrinologists in drawing conclusions regarding the root causes of obesity.