Abstract
Over the past three decades the prevalence of obesity in the UK has more than doubled, making it one of our fastest growing health problems. This rise has become a serious public health concern, due to the association of obesity with serious chronic-disease-related morbidity, including type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and several cancers, and the resulting healthcare costs. England has the highest rates of obesity in Europe, with more than 60% of adults and one-third of 10 and 11 year olds overweight or obese. Obesity is set to take over from cigarette smoking as the major preventable cause of disease and death in the UK. Objectives in the management and treatment of obesity should target not only weight loss, but also reducing the potential associated risks that may add to its detrimental impact on health. This article aims to outline a healthy diet, discuss the associated health risks and treatment options available in the management of adult obesity, from lifestyle modifications to bariatric surgery.
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