Obesity in adults: overview of a clinical practice guideline for South Africa

Obesity is a multifactorial condition posing an escalating public health burden in South Africa, where access to effective, evidence-based interventions remains constrained. This overview describes the South African adaptation of the Canadian Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guideline, contextualized through locoregional evidence to provide pragmatic, setting-appropriate recommendations and culminating in a comprehensive 18-chapter guideline. Key areas of uncertainty - including HIV-associated weight trajectories and culturally specific perspectives on obesity - are acknowledged, with guidance offered where evidence permits. This guideline addresses a critical gap in culturally responsive, resource-sensitive obesity management within the African healthcare context.