Giang's weight gain began in college, escalating by 40 kg over the past 4 years. Upon arriving at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, he stood 1.75 m tall, weighed 120 kg, and had a body mass index (BMI) of 39 kg/cm2. His visceral fat measured 258 cm2, 2.5 times the safe limit, indicating severe obesity. This excessive visceral fat contributed to an enlarged fatty liver (grade three), elevated liver enzymes, lipid disorders, diabetes, high uric acid levels, all compounded by his pre-existing mitral valve regurgitation.

Dr. Pham Thi Thu Ha, from the Weight Control and Obesity Treatment Center, explained that Giang's mild mitral valve regurgitation, exacerbated by obesity, necessitated weight loss to prevent it from worsening. Overweight and obese individuals with mitral valve regurgitation face a higher risk of heart failure, heart attacks, strokes, and other heart rhythm problems. Long-term obesity can also lead to hypertension, further straining the heart.

"Increased blood volume forces the heart to work harder, elevating pressure on the heart valves," Dr. Ha explained.

Dr. Ha consults with Giang on a weight loss plan. Photo: Hospital provided

Dr. Ha consults with Giang on a weight loss plan. Photo: Hospital provided

Dr. Huynh Thanh Kieu, Head of Cardiology 1 at Tam Anh General Hospital's Cardiovascular Center, cited research showing that every unit increase in BMI raises the risk of heart failure by 5% in men and 7% in women. Visceral fat directly impacts the heart muscle, causing cell enlargement, fibrosis, increased circulatory volume, and systemic inflammation, ultimately leading to heart failure.

"Weight loss can reduce the risk of obesity-related heart failure by up to 50%," Dr. Kieu stated.

Giang undergoes an InBody assessment. Photo: Hospital provided

Giang undergoes an InBody assessment. Photo: Hospital provided

Doctors advised Giang on a weight loss program combined with cardiovascular treatment. Initially, he reduced snacking and milk tea consumption, opted for stairs over elevators, and incorporated gym workouts and running into his weekends.

Adjusting his work and lifestyle proved challenging at first, almost leading him to give up. However, motivated by his health and family support, he persevered with regular exercise and a structured diet. Within a month, he lost 7 kg, inspiring him to pursue his goal of getting below 90 kg.

Duc Hanh

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