The Disease That's Seen But Not Seen: Two out of three people with obesity are undiagnosed

A recent study conducted by specialists at the University of Buenos Aires' Hospital de Clínicas has revealed a troubling reality: two out of three individuals with obesity remain undiagnosed. The findings highlight a critical gap in medical practice, where a condition clearly visible yet often overlooked continues to go unrecognized for years. The research evaluated 320 participants, revealing that eight out of every ten had obesity, yet only 36 percent had received a formal diagnosis from a physician or nutritionist. This means nearly two-thirds of those affected were unaware they suffered from the condition. The implications extend beyond mere weight gain. Among the participants, 40 percent exhibited high or very high risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event, while 36 percent had hypertension, 34 percent showed signs of fatty liver disease, 31 percent developed osteoarthritis, 30 percent had dyslipidemia, and 19 percent were diagnosed with diabetes. These figures underscore the serious health consequences associated with undiagnosed obesity. Furthermore, almost six out of every ten participants displayed elevated blood pressure levels, and 35 percent were found to have significant hepatic fibrosis. These complications suggest that untreated obesity can lead to severe systemic damage long before symptoms become apparent. Dr. Pilar Quevedo, head of the Nutrition Division at the hospital, emphasized the urgent need for active detection strategies. She noted that many individuals with obesity are never formally informed of their condition, reinforcing the importance of early intervention. Dr. Quevedo and fellow specialist Dr. Gabriela Radosta pointed to a broader issue within the healthcare system: for decades, obesity was viewed primarily as a lifestyle choice rather than a chronic, complex illness. This outdated perspective has contributed to persistent stigma and underreporting. Some professionals avoid using the term "obesity" to prevent discomfort, further complicating accurate diagnosis and treatment. The researchers also highlighted the simplicity of initial screening methods. A basic measurement of height, weight, and waist circumference, tasks typically handled by general practitioners, can yield valuable insights. Dr. Quevedo explained that these metrics enable rapid, cost-effective identification of obesity and its related risks. However, more advanced assessments, such as body composition analysis, offer greater precision. In the study, considering only Body Mass Index (BMI) indicated a prevalence of obesity among 72.7 percent of participants. When waist measurements were included, this figure rose to 89.7 percent. Not measuring waist circumference, the researchers argue, represents a missed opportunity to identify both the condition and its associated cardiovascular risks. This local situation reflects a global trend. According to the World Obesity Atlas 2025, 39 percent of adult Argentinians live with obesity, and 73 percent have an elevated BMI. The problem begins early, as evidenced by the Second National Nutrition and Health Survey, which found that 41.1 percent of children and adolescents aged five to seventeen are overweight. Of these, 20.7 percent have overweight, and 20.4 percent suffer from obesity. The Ministry of Health warns that excess weight increases the risk of over 200 health issues, including diabetes, hypertension, and other conditions.