Obesity being the major health burden needed to be chased: A systemic review (2000-2010)

“Obesity” originates from the latin word “obesus” that means fat, plump or swollen. Obesity is multifactorial, chronic disorder with complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. It is the major health burden in the western world, not just in terms of the increased risk of diabetes (type 2), cardiovascular morbidity, and cancer, but also in the economic costs to healthcare providers. Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to such a level that it may have an adverse affect on health. However, the genetic liability for the vast majority of the population does not reside in a single gene, thus obesity is a multigenic disorder. It can be described as “New World Syndrome” and “diseases of civilization” which is widespread, crippling and life shortening disease. Several therapeutic strategies are available for overweight and obese population: behavioral strategies, bariatric surgery for those at greatest risk and medication. The primary treatment for obesity is controlled diet and physical exercise, if these fail, anti-obesity medication is recommended to reduce appetite or inhibit fat absorption. In severe cases, surgery is performed or an intra-gastric balloon is placed to reduce stomach volume or bowel length, leading to earlier satiation and reduced ability to absorb nutrients from food. Sibutramine and orlistat are the only two drugs approved by FDA for long term use in obesity. Several FDA approved drugs for conditions other than obesity have been investigated for treatment of excess body weight. Conclusively, the obesity is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality.