Science of Obesity

Overview

• Major Adverse Impact on Individual, Health Care System, Economy
• Prevention & Treatment is a Priority
• Prevention & Treatment strategies differ, However not Exclusive
• Multifactorial, Chronic, Relapsing disease
  • Genetic, Environmental and Biological factors
  • Weight regain driven by biological factors
• Recognising obesity as a Combination of Causes, could lead to Policies addressing the obesogenic environment
• Policies needed to Reduce Stigma, Provide Access to Effective Treatment

Definition - WHO

Abnormal or Excessive Fat Accumulation that presents a Risk to Health

• Crude measure - BMI
  • ≥ 25 = Overweight
  • ≥30 = Obese 1-3
  • Opportunity for misclassification
• EOSS Tool Stage 1-5
  • Tracks Progression and Risk
  • More Informative

Asian Population require a lower risk threshold, BMI Obesity >25

Epidemiology

• 27% UK

• Increasing over time
• Ineffective at halting increase

Metabolic Syndrome

ATP Definition - 3 of Following Categories:

• Abdominal/Central Obesity