Definition
Obesity is a multifactorial disease, with its pathogenesis including genetic factors, overeating, physical inactivity, and a variety of other factors.
Prevalence
The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide.
Therapy
Numerous recent studies have not only contributed to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of obesity and its association with accompanying diseases, but also to the development of better therapeutic strategies. However, the effect of lifestyle intervention as the basis of any therapy of obesity is often not sufficient and long-lasting. Pharmacotherapy does not yet play a role that would presumably be necessary in order to improve the results of conservative treatment of obesity. Instead, recently published studies with favorable data support the use of surgical strategies in obese subjects when indicated, as also suggested in current national and international guidelines.