Abstract

Background: Obesity is a worldwide problem and is a risk factor for multiple health problems. Leptin is an adipokine with a role in energy homeostasis and interruption in its action leads to obesity.

Aims and Objectives: The present study is conducted to determine leptin levels in obese and normal weight adults and correlate the leptin levels with body mass index (BMI) among obese.

Materials and Methods: The study comprised of 50 healthy obese subjects and 20 normal weight controls in the age group of 30–45 years of either sex. BMI and serum leptin were measured for both subjects and control.

Results: The study demonstrates higher leptin levels in obese as compared to normal weight adults (P < 0.0001) and significant positive Pearson correlation coefficient between serum leptin and BMI among obese.

Conclusion: Leptin circulates excessively in obese, and measures should be taken to reduce the refractoriness of leptin to regulate the energy homeostasis.

Key words: Leptin; Obesity; Body Mass Index