Page 118 - GHES-3-2

Global Health Economics and
Sustainability
Hospitalizations due to obesity and deaths from diabetes

When analyzing the correlation between hospitalizations collecting data, a lack of clarity regarding the importance
for obesity and deaths from T2DM, we can consider obesity of this variable, or challenges faced by the participants in
a significant risk factor for individuals with T2DM. Several self-identifying their color or race, often due to pre-judice
correlations in this study are supported by other research, or a lack of awareness. This situation may be particularly
confirming that obesity is closely associated with one of relevant in the case of self-reported classifications of “non-
the most prevalent diseases in modern society – T2DM. white,” which can carry negative social connotations,
For example, when BMI (kg/m ) exceeds 35, the risk of particularly for Black individuals (Araújo, 2016).
2
developing T2DM increases by 93 times in women and Moreover, research indicates that the prevalence of
42 times in men. The health risks associated with obesity
increase progressively and disproportionately with weight hypertension among Black women is up to 130% higher
gain, in what is known as the “J” curve. Furthermore, compared to White women. This disparity is linked to
obesity exacerbates mortality risks (Pinho et al., 2013). several factors, including genetic pre-disposition, poorer
In the same study (Pinho et al., 2013), it was found that living conditions, limited access to healthcare, and higher
approximately 75% of non-insulin-dependent diabetic levels of stress (Malta et al., 2017).
patients are overweight. A 10% increase in body weight Given the increasing prevalence of T2DM and its chronic
results in a 2 mg/dL increase in fasting blood glucose. complications throughout the state, it is important for
Moreover, studies have shown that a waist circumference public authorities to invest in improving access to reliable
greater than 100 cm can increase the risk of developing information about the determinants and consequences of
T2DM by 3.5 times, even after controlling for BMI overweight. This effort includes developing comprehensive
(Franchischi et al., 2000). public policies aimed at fostering healthy choices in diet
In the development of T2DM, the adipose tissue and physical activity across all social classes.
increases the demand for insulin, and in obese patients, Regions with the highest rates of overweight and obesity,
it can create insulin resistance, leading to elevated blood such as Rio Branco, Cruzeiro do Sul, and Sena Madureira,
sugar levels and subsequent hyperinsulinemia. However, should be targeted for specific interventions focused on
the sensitivity of adipose tissue to insulin may remain preventing T2DM and promoting healthy lifestyle habits.
high, suggesting that lipogenesis may still be favored. In In addition, younger age groups should be prioritized, as
some cases, this resistance may be attributed to a decrease they are at the highest risk for developing T2DM related to
in insulin receptor concentrations or a failure in the overweight and obesity.
cellular transport mechanisms (Franchischi et al., 2000).
This mechanism may help explain the absence of data 5. Conclusion
on obesity-related deaths, as deaths might be reported Our findings reveal a significant increase in deaths due
under different risk factors. It is also worth mentioning to T2DM over the study period, accompanied by rising
that, according to DATASUS, the cause of hospitalization hospital costs. The data also show a higher prevalence
is the primary diagnosis listed, directly transcribed from
the medical record by the registration service units. Since of T2DM in older age groups, with a relatively balanced
obesity can be the underlying cause of multiple diseases, distribution between men and women. Regarding obesity,
the primary diagnosis reported in the medical record may hospitalizations were more frequent in individuals aged
focus on life-threatening conditions rather than obesity 30 and older, particularly among women. Furthermore,
itself (Cascão et al., 2016). a notable correlation was found between T2DM-related
deaths and hospitalizations due to obesity, suggesting
In general, this study has shown that the incidence of that many T2DM-related deaths occurred in individuals
type 2 diabetes and obesity has been higher in the female also hospitalized for obesity, a condition that is associated
population compared to the male population. with various comorbidities. In summary, we recommend
This result is expected, as women are generally more further studies on this topic to inform the development
proactive in managing their health and maintaining better of more effective and targeted public health policies to
control over their blood pressure levels than men. Women address these interconnected health issues.
are more likely to visit health services and adhere to
treatment regimens, while men, for cultural reasons, tend Acknowledgments
to avoid seeking medical assistance and taking care of their None.
health (Dantas et al., 2017).
The lack of information on race/skin color may be Funding
attributed to difficulties faced by the interviewers in None.

Volume 3 Issue 2 (2025) 110 https://doi.org/10.36922/ghes.3027