At Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Nghi, who is 1.56 m tall and weighs 74 kg, was diagnosed with class two obesity, a BMI of 30.4 kg/m2, and visceral fat measuring 190 cm2. Blood tests revealed elevated liver enzymes, mixed hyperlipidemia, and pre-diabetes, in addition to her existing high blood pressure.

Despite having been obese for years, Nghi only now committed to treatment after experiencing a mild stroke two months prior due to a blood clot. Thanks to receiving thrombolytic medication within the "golden hour" (4 hours after the onset of the first symptom), her health gradually improved after more than a week in the hospital.

Doctor Tran Nguyen Quynh Tram, Deputy Head of the Endocrinology - Diabetes Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, explained that the risk of stroke recurrence and death is higher in individuals with a BMI over 30 kg/m2, like Nghi, due to the high blood pressure that often accompanies excess weight. Excess fatty tissue increases blood circulation, leading to increased resistance in small arteries, forcing the heart to work continuously to supply blood to the body. Over time, this can cause arteriosclerosis. The high sodium levels that accumulate in obese individuals further exacerbate increased blood circulation, blood pressure, and blood lipids. These are all risk factors for cardiovascular diseases such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke.

"Recurrent strokes are often more severe than the initial event, with lower chances of recovery and a greater risk to life", Dr. Tram warned, recommending that Nghi lose 5-10% of her body weight.

Dr. Tram is advising Nghi on a weight loss program. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Tram is advising Nghi on a weight loss program. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Nghi's obesity treatment plan involved medication combined with dietary changes tailored to her health condition. She limited alcohol and sugary drinks, avoided staying up late, and refrained from uncontrolled eating habits. She also incorporated exercise within her capabilities. Her daily sodium intake was reduced to below 2 g, and she increased her consumption of fruits and vegetables to help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL).

After three months, Nghi lost 12 kg, exceeding her initial goal. She is currently maintaining her obesity treatment plan and attending regular check-ups to prevent potential stroke risks.

Duc Hanh