RESOURCES (Obesity Guidelines and Position Statements)

Obesity is a multi-factorial chronic disease requiring a comprehensive approach to both prevent and treat. Obesity is a major contributor to a large number of preventable deaths in the U.S. and carries with it various related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, certain cancers, sleep apnea and arthritis. Treating or addressing obesity among those already affected by obesity is difficult. This is clearly demonstrated by the more than 38 percent of Americans who are currently affected by obesity. However challenging though, efforts must be made to both prevent and treat obesity at all stages and in all age groups. Treatment approaches should include: school and community-based programs; lifestyle interventions; educational programs; drug, diet and physician-supervised programs; nutritional counseling; and bariatric surgery.

Below, you will find links to various obesity guidelines that have been developed in an effort to address the obesity epidemic: