There’s a terrifying link between the two.
Obesity remains a pressing global health issue, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting that 16% of the global population was obese in 2022. The prevalence is significantly higher in the United States, where the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that 41.9% of the population had obesity in 2020. Of particular concern is the rising incidence of obesity among children and adolescents, with 160 million affected worldwide.
The health risks associated with obesity are numerous and severe, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, and certain cancers. Recent research presented at the American Physiology Summit suggests that obesity may also accelerate brain aging and lead to cognitive decline. Dr. Sharon Negri, the lead author of the study, explains that obesity-induced inflammation may contribute to senescence in the brain’s blood vessels, impairing cognitive function.
Studies indicate that obesity is associated with reduced cerebral blood flow and impaired cognitive function, especially in older individuals. In a new study using transgenic mice, researchers observed that a high-fat diet led to increased senescence of endothelial cells in blood vessels, accompanied by impaired cognitive function. Treatment with Navitoclax, which selectively kills senescent cells, improved cognitive function in obese mice, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy.
While these findings are promising, further research is needed to understand the molecular mechanisms involved and assess the safety and efficacy of Navitoclax in human cognitive function. Dr. Negri emphasizes the importance of continued research into strategies for preventing or reversing cognitive decline associated with aging. While the use of Navitoclax as a therapeutic measure requires careful consideration, these findings offer hope for addressing obesity-related brain problems in the future.
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