Trends in Prevalence of Obesity and Related Cardiometabolic and Renal Complications in Korea: A Nationwide Study 2007 to 2022

Abstract

Background: As obesity increases, the burden of obesity-related comorbidities also rises. However, the prevalence of obesity-related comorbidities among individuals in Korea has not been evaluated. Methods: Data from the 2007 to 2022 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys database were analyzed (n=93,761). The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, steatotic liver disease (SLD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD) was analyzed based on the presence of obesity and central obesity. The prevalence of obesity-related comorbidities was examined according to age and sex. Results: The prevalence of obesity has steadily increased from 31.5% in 2007-2009 to 37.4% in 2020-2022, with a more pronounced rise in men and those aged 19 to 39 years. Among individuals with obesity, the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, CKD, and SLD has also increased. The proportion of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and MASLD with increased alcohol intake have risen. The increase in CKD prevalence was particularly prominent in the young (19 to 39 years) and middle-aged (40 to 59 years) groups. Similar trends were observed when analyzing data based on central obesity. Conclusion: With the increase in obesity, the prevalence of obesity-related comorbidities in the Korean population has risen. Young and middle-aged individuals with obesity are particularly vulnerable to these comorbidities, highlighting the need for early intervention and targeted healthcare strategies.