Obesity and metabolic syndrome are increasingly serious public health issues worldwide. Obesity is a risk factor for many chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and fatty liver disease, and is a primary manifestation of metabolic syndrome. In digestive surgery, obesity is a major risk factor for diseases like fatty liver, which is closely linked to metabolic syndrome. Obesity also contributes to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by increasing abdominal pressure, promoting gastric reflux into the esophagus. Furthermore, obesity may impair intestinal function, worsening symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Studies indicate that dietary habits, such as high-fat and high-sugar diets, contribute to obesity. Additionally, lifestyle habits, including physical activity, sleep quality, and stress management, influence the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Recent research has explored environmental factors like air pollution, urbanization, and green spaces in residential areas, examining their influence on lifestyle and metabolic processes. For example, populations in polluted areas are more prone to weight gain and metabolic abnormalities, while urban residents face unhealthy diets and insufficient physical activity, increasing obesity risk.
The core hypothesis of this study is that diet, lifestyle habits, and environmental factors interact to influence obesity, metabolic syndrome, and related digestive diseases. We plan to use UK Biobank data to examine the independent and interactive effects of these factors.
Innovation: This research will assess the independent effects and interactions of these factors, providing new insights into obesity, metabolic syndrome, and digestive diseases.
Project Duration: 36 months.
Public Health Implications: This study will inform public health strategies for weight loss, metabolic syndrome prevention, and digestive disease management.