OBESE-HFpEF: Towards Preventing Obesity Related HFpEF

Obesity, severe overweight, is a growing problem worldwide and increases the risk of heart failure, especially a type called heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In HFpEF, the heart becomes stiffer. This makes it harder for the heart to fill with blood, which can lead to shortness of breath during physical activity. In the Netherlands, 15% of the population has obesity. In South Limburg, this is even higher at 19%. Among people with HFpEF, obesity is much more common: about 50% of these patients have obesity. Life expectancy in people with HFpEF is poor, and current treatment mainly focuses on reducing symptoms. Early recognition and treatment of risk factors, such as obesity, are therefore very important. This study includes about 250 people with obesity. Using a heart ultrasound and tests of blood and fat tissue, we will look for early signs of HFpEF and study the effects of weight loss. The measurements will be repeated after 1 and 2 years. The goal of this study is to better understand how obesity contributes to HFpEF and how weight loss affects the heart. This research may help improve future treatments for patients with HFpEF.