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Obesity: epidemiology and possible prevention
Ian D Caterson1, Timothy P Gill
1Human Nutrition Unit, School of Molecular & Microbial Biosciences, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.
Best Practice & Research. Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
|December 7, 2002
Summary
Obesity, defined by excessive fat accumulation impairing health, is a global crisis affecting 315 million people. Prevention strategies are more cost-effective for long-term body weight control than treatment.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Obesity is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in adipose tissue, potentially impairing health.
- Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference are key measures of adiposity.
- Global obesity rates have surged, with 315 million individuals classified as obese (BMI ≥ 30).
Purpose of the Study:
- To define obesity and its global public health impact.
- To identify the primary drivers of increasing obesity rates worldwide.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of obesity prevention versus treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Utilized body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference for adiposity measurement.
- Reviewed global health data to estimate obesity prevalence.
- Analyzed environmental and societal factors contributing to obesity.
- Assessed the cost-effectiveness of obesity prevention versus treatment.
Main Results:
- Obesity is a significant global public health issue affecting millions.
- Environmental changes promoting low physical activity and high-energy food consumption are primary causes.
- Current obesity prevention strategies have not been successful.
- Prevention is likely more cost-effective for long-term weight management than treatment.
Conclusions:
- Obesity poses a major global health challenge.
- Societal and environmental shifts are driving the obesity epidemic.
- Focusing on prevention is crucial for effective, long-term obesity management and is more cost-effective than treatment.