Although the researchers were unable to determine if leptin is an independent risk factor for heart disease, obesity itself does increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. The researchers suggest that exercise, which reduces levels of leptin hormone, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Exercise also is an effective means of losing weight. Obesity is one of the major risk factors for coronary heart disease, according to the American Heart Association . According to a 1998 American Heart Association conference concerning obesity and cardiovascular disease, obesity itself has many causes, including genetic heredity and environmental factors.
Blood pressure tends to increase with weight gain.
In addition, obesity has also been linked to a metabolic disorder, resulting in insulin resistance. Contact Information Copyright 2001 Methodist Health Care System, Houston, Tx. All Rights Reserved. Please read our disclaimer and privacy policy . Methodist Health Care System is comprised of The Methodist Hospital , Methodist Diagnostic Hospital , San Jacinto Methodist Hospital , Methodist Health Center-Sugar Land , Methodist Willowbrook Hospital , Visiting Nurse Association , MethodistCare health plans , and is affiliated with a network of physician organizations .