Describe how obesity increases cardiovascular mortality.

• A. Obesity reduces inflammation and improves endothelial function
• B. Obesity has no impact on cardiovascular mortality
• C. Obesity only affects lipid levels
• D. Obesity is an inflammatory state with increased cytokines, oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction; excess epicardial fat increases LV wall stress and contributes to LVH and cardiomyopathy

Answer: (C)