Medical news update November 5th: General health check-up reveals risk of acute pancreatitis at age 31.

Medical news update November 5th: General health check-up reveals risk of acute pancreatitis at age 31.

With no unusual symptoms, the 31-year-old man unexpectedly discovered a series of health problems after a general check-up, including triglyceride levels nearly 10 times higher than the normal limit, posing a risk of acute pancreatitis and cardiovascular complications

Báo Đầu tư•05/11/2026

Obesity increases the risk of many serious diseases

During his visit back to Vietnam, Mr. THA (31 years old, from Hanoi ), currently living and working in the US, proactively visited MEDLATEC Tay Ho Multi-Specialty Clinic for a general health check-up. Prior to this, he had never been diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease, and had not noticed any unusual symptoms in his daily life

However, the patient has a long history of being overweight and is undergoing weight loss treatment, having lost approximately 8 kg in the past three months

Health experts warn that obesity is becoming an increasingly serious health concern due to its far-reaching effects on metabolism and the function of many organs in the body.

At the time of examination, Mr. A weighed 100 kg, was 1.78 m tall, had a body mass index (BMI) of 31.56 kg/m², and a waist circumference of 94 cm. These parameters indicated obesity, a condition closely associated with many metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases. Notably, although vital signs were normal, the test results revealed several serious abnormalities

Specifically, the patient’s total cholesterol reached 6.65 mmol/L, LDL-C was reported at 4.25 mmol/L, while triglycerides rose to 16.85 mmol/L, nearly 10 times higher than the normal limit of 1.7 mmol/L

Among the abnormalities detected, elevated triglycerides were particularly concerning because the levels far exceeded the threshold that increases the risk of acute pancreatitis. This is a dangerous complication that can develop rapidly, causing serious damage to the pancreas and even threatening life if not treated promptly

Besides the risk of acute complications, chronic dyslipidemia also contributes to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis, especially in individuals who also have obesity, hyperglycemia, or other metabolic risk factors

The test results also showed that the patient’s HbA1c level was 5.85%, which falls within the pre-diabetic range. Although not yet sufficient to diagnose diabetes, this level warns of the risk of developing type 2 diabetes if risk factors are not controlled

Furthermore, abdominal ultrasound revealed an enlarged liver, grade II-III fatty liver, gallbladder polyps, and a right renal cyst. Liver elasticity measurements were at level F0 according to the Metavir scale, with no evidence of liver fibrosis. Additionally, the patient was found to be vitamin D deficient

After compiling the results of the examinations and tests, the doctors determined that Mr. A. had five main health problems, including obesity, severe dyslipidemia, prediabetes, fatty liver disease, and vitamin D deficiency

Notably, these abnormalities were detected while the patient was still living and working normally, without any obvious clinical symptoms. This suggests that metabolic disorders can progress over a long period without the affected person being aware, and are only discovered when complications arise

Given this situation, the patient was advised to continue managing their weight, treat triglyceride levels, supplement with omega-3 and vitamin D, and use liver function support medication as prescribed

The doctor also advised him to adjust his diet, avoid alcohol, limit added sugar and refined carbohydrates, and increase his intake of green vegetables, whole grains, and healthy protein with his health condition and treatment plan

In particular, with very high triglyceride levels, patients need to be evaluated for the cause, treated, and closely monitored to reduce the risk of acute pancreatitis, while also managing cardiovascular risk factors in the long term

Health experts warn that obesity is becoming an increasingly serious health concern due to its far-reaching effects on metabolism and the function of many organs in the body. Obese individuals are at a higher risk of developing problems such as dyslipidemia, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular disease

Updated medical recommendations for 2026 continue to emphasize that obesity is a chronic disease with a progressive nature and a risk of recurrence, requiring long-term management rather than focusing solely on short-term weight loss

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends assessing excess body fat through indicators such as BMI and waist circumference, while also considering complications associated with obesity

For individuals of Asian descent, a BMI of 27.5 kg/m² or higher is used in obesity assessment according to updated guidelines. Cases with lower BMIs but exceeding the abdominal fat accumulation threshold also require a full health risk assessment

This approach suggests that weight index alone does not fully reflect the impact of obesity on the body. A person may not yet show any unusual symptoms but may already have changes in blood sugar, blood lipids, liver function, or cardiovascular risk factors

The European Association for Obesity Research (EASO) also emphasizes that obesity management needs to be comprehensive, including assessing complications, risk stratification, establishing individualized treatment goals, and long-term monitoring to maintain effective weight control

Mechanistically, excessive fat accumulation, especially visceral fat, can promote insulin resistance, disrupt glucose and lipid metabolism, and cause adverse changes to the liver, cardiovascular system, and many other organs

In the liver, prolonged fat accumulation can lead to fatty liver disease associated with metabolic disorders, liver fibrosis, and more serious damage. Meanwhile, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes increase the risk of coronary artery disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and stroke

Notably, when multiple risk factors are present, the likelihood of complications can increase. Mr. A’s case illustrates how obesity can be accompanied by a range of metabolic abnormalities even at a young age, without clear warning signs

According to Dr. Nguyen Thi Thuy Linh, a specialist in Cardiology, early detection of metabolic disorders, thorough assessment of risk factors, and the development of a weight management plan from the outset are crucial in preventing complications

To protect their health, doctors advise people to maintain a healthy weight, control their waist circumference, and build a balanced diet, limiting fast food, processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in unhealthy fats

Along with a proper diet, everyone should maintain at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week at an appropriate intensity, limit alcohol consumption, avoid smoking, and ensure adequate rest. For those who are obese or have metabolic disorders, weight loss should be done scientifically , with specific goals and under the supervision of healthcare professionals when necessary

The doctor also noted that overweight or obese individuals, those who are sedentary, or have a family history of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease should proactively undergo regular health checkups and blood glucose, blood lipid, and liver function tests as prescribed to detect abnormalities early

Metabolic disorders often develop insidiously, causing few symptoms in the early stages, but can lead to serious complications if left uncontrolled. Therefore, regular health checkups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle play a crucial role in detecting and controlling risk factors, contributing to reducing the burden of disease and protecting long-term health

The 30-year-old player died after the collision; doctors warned of the risk of sudden cardiac arrest

Tenerife Football Club (Spain) confirmed the death of striker Jesús de Miguel at the age of 30, following a serious incident during their match against FC Andorra on November 2nd. The news shocked the Spanish football community and raised concerns about the risk of sudden cardiac arrest during sports activities

Reuters reported that the incident occurred in the final minutes of added time, when FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono rushed out of the penalty area to intercept a long pass. During the challenge, the goalkeeper’s knee struck De Miguel in the chest, causing the Tenerife striker to collapse to the ground

Medical personnel immediately approached and provided first aid before transferring the player to the hospital. Although his pulse was restored after resuscitation, De Miguel did not regain consciousness and passed away the following morning

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The incident raises a crucial question: Why could the patient still die even after the heart started beating again? Discussing this issue, Dr. Doan Du Manh, a cardiologist at the International Center for Cardiology and Stroke, Phuong Dong General Hospital, stated that cardiac arrest is one of the most dangerous emergencies because the heart’s pumping function is suddenly interrupted, depriving the brain and vital organs of sufficient oxygen to maintain their function.

Among the body’s organs, the brain is particularly sensitive to oxygen deprivation. Just a few minutes after circulation stops, brain cells are at risk of serious damage. If oxygen deprivation persists, the damage can become irreversible, even after heart function is restored

Dr. Manh explained that the return of the heart’s beating after resuscitation only marks the restoration of natural circulation and cannot yet confirm that the patient has overcome the critical stage. In many cases, brain damage due to oxygen deprivation, organ dysfunction, or complications following cardiac arrest can continue to worsen

The likelihood of recovery depends on many factors, including the cause of cardiac arrest, the duration of circulatory interruption, the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the timing of circulatory restoration, and the extent of damage to the brain and other organs

Specifically, patients may maintain heart rate and respiration after resuscitation but remain in a coma due to brain damage. Therefore, restoring circulation requires intensive care, neurological monitoring, and management of complications to improve the chances of survival and functional recovery

In the case of player De Miguel, the published information indicates that he received emergency treatment and his pulse was restored, but he did not regain consciousness. However, the direct cause of death and the extent of organ damage need to be determined based on specific medical records and conclusions, rather than speculation based solely on events on the field

Besides the risk of brain damage after cardiac arrest, experts also warn that some sports injuries can directly cause dangerous heart rhythm disturbances, even in young and fit individuals

According to MSc. Doan Du Manh, a direct impact to the precordial region, if it occurs at a sensitive time in the heart’s electrical cycle, can cause ventricular fibrillation, leading to the heart losing its ability to pump blood effectively and resulting in sudden cardiac arrest

This phenomenon is called cardiac arrest due to chest trauma (commatio cordis), a rare but extremely dangerous condition. The person experiencing it may suddenly lose consciousness, collapse immediately after impact, and quickly go into circulatory arrest

Unlike many cardiovascular diseases that develop over a long period, cardiac arrest due to chest trauma can occur in previously healthy individuals with no known structural heart abnormalities. The degree of danger depends on the location, characteristics of the impact force, and the timing of the impact within the heart’s electrical cycle

In addition to this mechanism, certain underlying cardiovascular conditions, including Brugada syndrome or Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, may also be associated with an increased risk of dangerous arrhythmias. Severe chest trauma can also damage the heart muscle, lungs, ribs, or major blood vessels

However, the doctor noted that it is impossible to conclude the cause of a player’s cardiac arrest based solely on images of the collision. Differentiating between cardiac arrest due to mechanical impact, underlying cardiovascular disease, or other traumatic injury requires examination, testing, and professional evaluation

Given the potential risks involved in sports activities, Dr. Manh advises athletes and those who regularly engage in high-intensity training to prioritize cardiovascular health checks, especially if they experience symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, or fainting during exercise

Individuals with a family history of sudden infant death syndrome or inherited heart disease should also undergo specialist examinations to assess their risk and receive appropriate monitoring

One particularly important issue emphasized by experts is the ability to identify and manage cardiac arrest at the scene. When a person suddenly becomes unconscious, unresponsive, and not breathing normally, witnesses should quickly call emergency services (115) and perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) instead of waiting for medical personnel to arrive

For adults, chest compressions should be performed at the center of the chest at a frequency of 100-120 compressions per minute, to a depth of approximately 5-6 cm, ensuring the chest returns to its original position after each compression. If an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available, it should be used as soon as possible and according to the device’s instructions

Even those without first aid training can perform continuous chest compressions (CPR) as instructed by emergency dispatchers. Proper CPR helps maintain some blood flow to the brain and heart, thereby prolonging the chance of survival while waiting for circulatory restoration

Dr. Manh emphasized that every minute of delay in emergency care can reduce the chances of survival and increase the risk of brain damage. Therefore, in addition to health checks before participating in high-intensity sports activities, training grounds, stadiums, and sports event venues need to prioritize equipping themselves with emergency equipment, especially AEDs, and provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training for their staff.

After losing 20 kg, the 32-year-old man experienced significant improvement in his liver fibrosis

At one point, Viet (32 years old, Hanoi) weighed over 100 kg and never imagined that his prolonged overweight condition would lead to a series of health problems, most worryingly fatty liver disease and liver fibrosis on a background of hepatitis B

At the hospital, the examination results showed that the patient was 1.78 m tall, weighed 108 kg, and had a body mass index (BMI) of 34.09 kg/m², classifying him as obese grade II according to the Asian obesity classification

Abdominal ultrasound revealed grade I fatty liver. Liver stiffness measured 6.72 kPa, corresponding to fibrosis levels F1-F2. Additionally, the patient also suffered from hepatitis B, dyslipidemia, and hyperuricemia

According to Dr. Vu Thuy Thanh, a specialist in general internal medicine, grade I fatty liver disease reflects a mild level of fat accumulation in the liver. However, the degree of fatty liver disease is not the only factor determining the risk of liver damage, especially in cases where other diseases are also present

In patients with hepatitis B, prolonged inflammation can damage liver cells and promote fibrosis. Meanwhile, obesity and dyslipidemia increase fat accumulation in the liver, contributing to an increased risk of inflammation and liver damage. The simultaneous presence of multiple risk factors can complicate the disease progression, even when the initial level of fatty liver is not severe

For Mr. Viet, the F1-F2 fibrosis level is assessed as mild to moderate. If the factors causing liver damage continue without control, the patient is at risk of developing fibrosis and related complications

A review of his medical history revealed that Mr. Viet had been overweight since childhood, frequently consuming high-energy, high-fat foods, having a habit of eating late at night, staying up late, and being inactive. These factors contributed to his gradual weight gain, leading to metabolic disorders and the accumulation of fat in his liver

After assessing the patient’s overall health, the doctor determined that weight management was one of the key goals in improving fatty liver disease and limiting factors that could worsen liver damage

In addition to prescribed medication for hepatitis B, Mr. Viet was advised to use weight-loss medication combined with dietary adjustments, increased physical activity, and lifestyle changes

Instead of adopting strict diets, patients are advised to maintain three main meals at relatively fixed times, avoid late-night eating, and control portion sizes to reduce overall energy intake

Daily menus prioritize green vegetables, fish, lean meat, eggs, tofu, and other suitable protein e grains. High-energy foods such as fast food, fried foods, processed meats, sweets, and sugary drinks are limited, and water intake is increased instead of sugary drinks

Due to having hepatitis B, fatty liver disease, and hyperuricemia, patients are also advised to limit alcohol, animal organs, and purine-rich foods according to nutritional counseling

Along with dietary changes, Mr. Viet began exercising by walking for about 15-20 minutes each day, then gradually increasing the time and intensity according to his body’s ability to adapt. As his physical condition improved, he aimed to maintain at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, incorporating strength training exercises if his health condition permitted

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Limiting sitting time, getting enough sleep, and monitoring weight regularly are also included in long-term health management plans

After a month of treatment, Viet’s weight dropped to 105 kg. These changes were maintained for over a year, resulting in a further weight reduction to 88 kg, equivalent to a decrease of 20 kg, or approximately 18.5% of his original weight

Notably, the follow-up examination showed that ALT and AST liver enzyme levels had returned to normal limits, and no fatty liver was detected during the examination. Liver fibrosis assessment also improved from F1-F2 to F0. Blood lipid and uric acid levels also decreased compared to before treatment

According to Dr. Thanh, these changes demonstrate the positive effects of combining treatment for the underlying condition, weight management, and lifestyle adjustments. However, the patient still needs continued monitoring of liver function, hepatitis B status, and metabolic factors to assess long-term results

Metabolic fatty liver disease (MASLD) is becoming a significant health concern, particularly among overweight, obese, sedentary individuals or those with underlying metabolic disorders

According to Dr. Vu Thuy Thanh, the disease is increasingly being observed in young people, linked to diets with excess energy intake, consumption of sugary foods and carbonated drinks, while the amount of green vegetables and fiber in their diets is not adequate

A sedentary lifestyle, frequent late nights, and prolonged stress can also contribute to increased metabolic risk factors

Worryingly, fatty liver disease often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Many cases are only discovered incidentally through ultrasound or tests during routine health checkups. Meanwhile, the accumulation of fat and liver damage can continue to progress, increasing the risk of fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer in those with advanced disease

In particular, the risk of liver damage needs to be considered more carefully in people who also have viral hepatitis, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, or chronic obesity

Current treatment guidelines identify weight loss and lifestyle changes as fundamental measures in managing fatty liver disease associated with metabolic disorders

Clinical practice guidelines from European associations of hepatology, diabetes, and obesity indicate that in overweight or obese individuals with MASLD, losing and maintaining at least 5% of body weight can help reduce fat accumulation in the liver. A 7-10% reduction may improve hepatitis, while a reduction of 10% or more may contribute to the improvement of liver fibrosis

However, the effectiveness of treatment depends on the extent of liver damage, co-morbidities, and the ability to maintain weight after weight loss. Weight loss should be controlled, avoiding overly restrictive diets or the use of weight-loss drugs of unknown origin, especially in people with pre-existing liver disease

For cases of obesity where medication is indicated, patients need to have their health assessed by a doctor, who will choose the appropriate method and monitor them during treatment. Not all people with fatty liver disease need to take weight-loss medication

Along with weight management, patients need to develop a balanced diet, limiting unhealthy fats, added sugars, and processed foods; increasing consumption of green vegetables, whole grains, and appropriate protein supports the reduction of liver fat, and maintains treatment outcomes

Dr. Thanh noted that people with fatty liver disease need to control risk factors such as dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and hypertension simultaneously. For people with hepatitis B, treatment and viral monitoring must still be maintained as prescribed, even if weight and liver function indicators have improved

People who are overweight, obese, have diabetes, or have dyslipidemia should proactively undergo regular health checkups, liver function tests, and other specialized assessments when necessary to detect damage early

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