Abstract

PEREA-MARTINEZ, Arturo et al. Obesity: assessment, diagnosis, treatment and opportunities for its prevention. Acta pediatr. Méx [online]. 2014, vol.35, n.4, pp.316-337. ISSN 2395-8235.

Obesity is a public health problem in the world. Its impact and potential consequences on health and quality of life of individuals and their families, health systems and the global economy, has become a priority issue for governments and administrative systems. It is a multifactorial disease with well-known prenatal and postnatal origins, which offer prevention and treatment opportunities. So, is necessary the health professional have an intimate knowledge of the disease and its complications, also existing treatment options: behavior management for acquiring a healthy lifestyle, drugs, nutrients and bariatric surgery; to achieve contain the impact on healthy life years, life expectancy and occupational health worldwide.

Keywords : overweight; obesity; treatment; life style; prevention.