ABSTRACT
The epidemics of obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are inextricably intertwined. The mechanisms by which obesity increases the risk of T2DM are complex and include inflammation, cytokines, insulin resistance, disruptive fatty acid metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction. When treating patients with obesity, particular attention should be paid to risk factors for diabetes. Both obesity and diabetes can benefit from weight loss. Lifestyle modalities such as increased physical activity and energy restriction can play critically important roles in reducing both obesity and risk factors for type 2 diabetes.
