Introduction: Breaking the cycle of obesity in mothers and children

Abstract

Obesity in pregnancy is part of a vicious cycle that contributes to the epidemic of obesity and diabetes across generations. Breaking the cycle of transgenerational obesity will require a better understanding of the epidemiological and clinical aspects of obesity as well as the translation of science into standardized clinical care and targeted interventions across thelife span of women and children. The objective of this book is to (1) summarize the state of the science of perinatal obesity and (2) provide clinicians with the information they need to effectively care for their patients during this important teachable moment in their lives.