Obesity | Conditions We Treat | Pediatric Endocrinology Specialty | UC Davis Children's Hospital

While not technically an “endocrine condition,” being overweight or obese can be associated with several endocrine conditions including type 2 diabetes, elevated levels of cholesterol or triglycerides (fats) in the blood, and polycystic ovary syndrome (a frequent cause of irregular menstrual periods in girls). The most common reason for obesity is unhealthy lifestyle — lack of adequate exercise and eating a diet that is high in calories and sugars. In rare cases, obesity can be caused by hormonal conditions in which there are abnormal levels of thyroid hormones, cortisol or other hormones.

Evaluation and treatment

Evaluation of obesity involves ruling out rare endocrine or genetic conditions that can cause obesity, screening for associated problems (like type 2 diabetes or abnormal blood lipid levels) that can be caused by obesity and while treatment involves working with a dietitian to develop a diet and exercise plan.