Photo Credit: Viktoriya Kabanova

Obesity is a significant risk factor for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), yet patients with both conditions often experience delays in diagnosis and management, according to authors of a study published in BMC Primary Care. Carlos Campos, MD, and colleagues conducted a survey in September 2020 of 114 patients with self-reported HFpEF and obesity and 200 clinicians, including 61 primary care professionals (PCPs). The findings showed that half of the patients waited an average of 11 months before discussing symptoms with a PCP, and only 11% received a diagnosis from their PCP. PCPs initiated treatment and managed HFpEF in only 35% of cases, and 44% discussed obesity treatment options. Only 20% of PCP respondents had formal training in obesity management, although 79% expressed interest in such training. The researchers concluded that increasing PCP awareness of the link between obesity and HFpEF could improve early diagnosis and management, emphasizing the need for enhanced training and referral practices.