Obesity management and scientific evidence

ABSTRACT

Obesity is now recognized as a critical target for public health intervention in many parts of the world, affecting virtually all age and socio-economic groups within both developed and developing countries. This study's objective is to provide an overview of the full range of methods and models available for weight loss, including some methods used by overweight and obese people without medical supervision. Many diverse approaches for achieving weight loss and weight maintenance have been evaluated. According to some evidence-based guidelines, in order to achieve the best treatment outcomes, it is recommended that a combination of dietary therapy with low-calorie diet, increased physical activity, and behavioral therapy be incorporated. Advances in treatment and innovative policy initiatives focusing on prevention could reverse the global problem of obesity and overweight. The most effective forms of treatment require collaboration among health care providers in primary care settings, including nurses, dietitians, psychologists, physicians, and psychiatrists. Effective strategies for weight loss require management strategies that combine dietary therapy and physical activity by using behavioral interventions. Thus, in the near future, the Korean government must develop evidence-based (clinical or community) guidelines for obesity management. Also, due to the lack of high quality primary studies on obesity management in Korea, future randomized clinical or community trials are recommended in this area.