[Prevention of eating disorders in obesity]

Obesity is a public health problem due to its high prevalence, high morbidity, and high mortality. The relationship between eating disorders (ED) and obesity is widely established. A healthcare professional that cares for people with obesity must take into account a series of best practices to minimize the risk of developing an ED in the course of treatment for weight loss. Bariatric surgery (BS) is an effective, long-term treatment in selected patients with severe obesity. During the preoperative period, it is essential to detect any ED due to its high prevalence in this group. After surgery, the presence of a post-op ED and its possible relationship in terms of poorer outcomes make screening during follow-up after surgery essential. From a preventive perspective, cognitive-behavioral therapy before BS could positively influence postoperative results, and its use after BS could improve weight loss efficacy and reduce binge eating and grazing. From a more holistic preventive perspective, many believe in an integrative approach to both obesity and ED. In order to be successful, it is essential to identify any relevant risk and protective factors for both disorders.