Articles

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity are closely interrelated metabolic disorders that together represent a growing global health burden. Obesity is a major risk factor for T2DM and plays a central role in its pathogenesis through mechanisms involving insulin resistance, dysregulated lipid metabolism, chronic low-grade inflammation, and altered adipokine secretion. Modern lifestyles characterized by physical inactivity and excessive caloric intake have created environmental conditions that interact with genetic predisposition to promote both obesity and diabetes. This review critically examines the relationship between obesity and T2DM, with particular emphasis on the role of free fatty acids, visceral adiposity, adipocytokines, and insulin resistance. In addition, patterns of genetic investigation relevant to obesity and T2DM are discussed, highlighting the importance of studying quantitative traits and early-life phenotypes. Understanding these interconnections is essential for the development of effective preventive and therapeutic strategies for both conditions