[Summary of the Dutch College of General Practitioners' practice guidelines on obesity]

Adults with obesity have a decreased life expectancy and an increased risk of disease. Preferred treatment is a combination of lifestyle interventions, consisting of changes in diet, physical exercise and psychological support. Normal weight is not an achievable target in most adults, but even a 5-10% weight loss yields significant health gains. Obese children run a significant risk of mental and physical illness and often become obese adults. Indeed, the practice guidelines recommend an active approach by the general practitioner if a child appears obese at a consultation, irrespective of the reason for consultation.