A multi professional perspective in the treatment of obesity

Obesity is a serious condition affecting the physical and psychological wel l being of a large number of individuals. There are many therapeutic option s for the disease and their judicious selection Is critical. The best resul ts are obtained with well-organised multi professional programs. The aims o f the treatment must be defined balancing risks and benefits. Eating behavi our patterns must be considered for the proper selection of therapy. Diet i s an essential therapeutic component and has to be individually prescribed for each patient. Pharmacological agents inhibit appetite: increase thermog enesis or inhibit gastrointestinal absorption of nutrients. As these medica tions have important side effects and complications, extreme care must be t aken for their prescription.