How to treat obesity - a review of current therapeutic methods

Abstract

The prevalence of obesity has increased over the recent past and it is important and severe public health problem. Several previous studies have shown that patients with obesity have higher morbidity and mortality. This review article discusses the significance of each of the methods of weight reduction, briefly reviews prior research in each area, identifies barriers to success of losing weight, and makes some recommendations. Diet and exercise are considered important components of a treatment strategy for adults with obesity. Appropriate use of diet and exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and glycemic control. Farmacotherapy can be helpful in the treatment of obesity. The observations confirmed that surgically induced body weight loss in obese subjects decreased overall mortality and improved metabolic disturbances associated with obesity. (Diabet. Prakt. 2008; 9: 39-43)