Obesity

This chapter defines obesity and have an awareness of the prevalence data. It evaluates the various methods and approaches to obesity management. Obesity prevalence worldwide has more than doubled since 1980 and is now recognised as a 'chronic, relapsing, progressive disease process' needing immediate action to manage the global epidemic. The current universal body mass measurement is body mass index, which is a simple calculation derived from stretch stature and body mass. Morbid obesity also contributes to reductions in physical function, walking speed and further increases the occurrence of disability. Routine identification of overweight and obesity typically occurs in primary care as general practitioners see three-quarters of patients at least once per year, with individuals with obesity attending more regularly. The expertise of the surgical department as well as the preference of the individual dictate the type of procedure performed.