Modern approaches to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of obesity

Approximately 2 billion people worldwide are overweight, including about 20% of adults and a quarter of a billion children. In Russia and Europe, about 60% of the population is diagnosed with obesity. According to global data, obesity is the fifth leading risk factor for premature death. The World Health Organization predicts that the number of people with morbid obesity will nearly double in the near future. Obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular, endocrine, and digestive diseases, obstructive sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, etc. Socio-demographic, behavioral and genetic factors are common causes of obesity. The diagnosis of obesity is made through the integrated use of parameters such as body mass index, waist circumference, fasting triglyceride levels, and others. Radiographic and ultrasound methods are being actively implemented. Today in Russia the choice of drugs for the treatment of obesity is very limited. Orlistat, sibutramine, liraglutide are approved for this indication. In addition, gastric electrostimulation and various surgical methods of treatment are effectively used. A targeted and comprehensive approach to improving the healthcare system for people with overweight and obesity should be a key factor in achieving the national goal of improving people’s health and well-being. Escalation of prevention efforts at all levels will help significantly reduce the spread of this disease and prevent its development around the world.