Assessment of Obesity, Presumed and Proven Causes and Prevention Strategies: A Review

Abstract

The obesity epidemic has been widespread in many countries, and has several adverse consequences. So many factors, some probable, others verified and documented, are known to contribute to the obesity problem in developed and developing countries. Nutritionists and other health professionals need to be skilled in understanding these various causes and their health implications. They should also be able to assess excessive body weight in clinical and other settings. Armed with this knowledge, health professionals should therefore be able to advise consumers and clients struggling with weight management on cost-effective preventive strategies to prevent or reduce incidence of obesity. In addition, nutritionists should be able to advise food manufacturers to make and market healthy food products. This paper will address the growing concern on obesity epidemic by reviewing the presumed and published or proven causes of obesity and the various methods for measurement of obesity. Strategies for preventing obesity will also be discussed. Such strategies would include health education, lifestyle changes, physical activity, diet and behaviour modifications as well as reading food labels and proper food selection. Preventive strategies for obesity and overweight when properly implemented are very cost effective especially at personal and community levels and will ensure good health and wellness in many populations.