Recognizing obesity as a disease

Obesity is a chronic, progressive, relapsing disease that impairs health and quality of life and shortens lifespan. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to its development and persistence. If left untreated, it worsens and leads to serious health consequences for those affected, as well as their offspring and future generations. Obesity complications drive many of the conditions that are seen routinely in clinical practice. By treating obesity first, many of these conditions improve or resolve. Given the seriousness of the disease, it is imperative that clinicians in primary and specialty care settings diagnose and treat or refer so that patients can receive appropriate treatment. Evidence-based treatment that is individualized and patient centered improves health and quality of life.