Abstract

Provides an illustrated, comprehensive review of obesity. An introductory discussion of the definitions of obesity and its epidemiology is followed by a detailed section on pathophysiology and aetiology.Tackles genetic predisposition and appetite regulation, in addition to common environmental and lifestyle factors and ethnicity. The authors proceed to discuss the much neglected area of management, approaching this area by defining the need to effectively assess the causes of the condition in the patient, giving advice on differential diagnosis, diet and exercise, behavioural therapy, surgery and pharmacological treatment. The atlas concludes with a summary of hospital care for the morbidly obese, and looks at promising future therapies, including preventative measures.