Obesity in Developing Countries

Obesity represents a major threat to the future health of the world's children - mostly due to its association with the development of a number of major diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. It is common in developed countries, as well as developing countries where it often co-exists alongside malnutrition and stunted growth. This chapter aims to provide practical guidelines for the paediatrician/physician who examines and treats an obese child within the resource-constrained settings often seen in many developing countries. It extensively covers Anthropometry, issues relating to diagnosis, important aspects relating to clinical evaluation, priorities for investigation and the various available and most appropriate treatment options.