Webinar Recap: “Beyond BMI” – Precision Approaches, Emerging Tools & Translational Strategies in Obesity

Obesity remains one of the most pressing global health challenges, affecting millions worldwide and contributing to a range of chronic diseases. As part of the PAS GRAS project a major European initiative aimed at understanding the complex interplay of lifestyle, genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors in obesity the European Society for Clinical Investigation (ESCI) is proud to contribute to advancing precision approaches for prevention and treatment.

On 5 December 2025, we hosted an online webinar titled “Beyond BMI: Precision Approaches, Emerging Tools, and Translational Strategies in Obesity”, bringing together a panel of renowned experts to discuss the latest developments in obesity research and clinical care.

The webinar featured two engaging sessions:

Session I – chaired by Dr. Harshitha Shanmugam

Prof. Paulo Oliveira presented “The PAS GRAS project: a multi-tool strategy to tackle obesity”, highlighting the project’s innovative approach to personalized obesity risk assessment and interventions.

Dr. Onno Holleboom shared an interdisciplinary perspective on why we need to move beyond BMI in understanding and managing obesity, identifying critical gaps in current approaches.

Session II – chaired by Prof. Leonilde Bonfrate

Prof. Alex Miras discussed the effects of obesity pharmacotherapy on cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, and other key outcomes.

Prof. Piero Portincasa concluded the webinar with insights into the relationship between obesity, liver health, and the microbiome.

The sessions were highly interactive, featuring stimulating discussions and thought-provoking questions from participants. We are grateful to our speakers and attendees for making this event a great success.