Obesity, body fat distribution, insulin resistance and link with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Obesity is associated with insulin resistance and subsequent development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Usage of measures of obesity including anthropometric parameters and body fat percentage assessment, in general practice is scarce in some counties except for body mass index. Recent studies have demonstrated that indicators of body fat distribution are superior risk indicators of development of insulin resistance compared to indicators of general obesity. Objectives of current review are to evaluate the association of insulin resistance with indicators of body fat distribution and anthropometric markers of general and central adiposity and to establish the association of obesity with insulin resistance and development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Relevant literature was gathered by searching through electronic data bases. Significant data were extracted and included in to the review. In conclusion, anthropometric markers of obesity among the general population are satisfactory enough to apply in risk assessment of development of obesity associated metabolic disorders including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus and will enable with early interventions.