[From obesity to obesities: from concepts to practices]

Area of Science:

• Metabolic disorders and endocrinology
• Public health and epidemiology
• Behavioral medicine

Context:

• Obesity is a complex health issue with diverse etiopathogenetic factors, including genetics, environment, and behavior.
• Modern lifestyles characterized by decreased physical activity and increased sedentary behavior contribute to the obesity pandemic.
• Psychological factors and altered food intake control mechanisms play a significant role in weight gain.

Purpose:

• To highlight the heterogeneity of obesity and the need for individualized management strategies.
• To emphasize that obesity is a chronic condition requiring long-term treatment.
• To advocate for a shift in treatment goals from solely weight loss to sustainable weight management and prevention of regain.

Summary:

• Obesity results from a positive energy balance influenced by numerous interacting factors, leading to significant clinical heterogeneity.
• Effective obesity management necessitates a thorough phenotypic analysis for tailored, long-term strategies focused on preventing weight regain.
• Obesity is viewed as both an adaptive symptom and a disease due to its prevalence, comorbidities, and socioeconomic impact.

Impact:

• Recognizing obesity's complexity can lead to more effective, patient-centered treatment plans.
• A shift towards long-term, multifaceted management may improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of obesity-related diseases.
• Further development of specific medical approaches for obesity is crucial for addressing this global health challenge.