Aspects of Obesity

Abstract

The topic of obesity could provide material for a series of symposia. Personal prejudice has largely determined the aspects chosen for discussion here, and these are intended to demonstrate features bearing on our understanding of the nature of this disorder, which, as is generally recognised, has such profound medical and social implications. Adiposity itself is less of a problem than the sequelae and complications which so commonly occur. The epidemiology of obesity will not be dealt with now, but a moment’s reflection on the morbidity and mortality associated with being overweight will suffice to emphasise the importance of even a single example such as diabetes mellitus.