According to the World Health Organization, obesity is defined as “abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health.” Obesity is a major health problem since it contributes to the onset and exacerbation of major chronic diseases such as hypertension, sleep apnea, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, some cancers and osteoarthritis, to name just a few.
In an individual, obesity may be the result of a genetic predisposition or the environment, but most often, there are multiple factors and the interaction between genetics and different factors in our environment (physical activity, diet and mental health) explain the development of this chronic health problem. Whatever the cause, to lose weight, obese individuals need to seek medical assistance and change various facets of their lifestyle. An integrated support program in which eating habits, physical activity and behaviour conducive to a healthy weight are integrated with medical follow-up is the key to success.
