Obesity - an epidemic of the 21st century – literature review

Abstract

Introduction and purpose: The article deals with the problem of obesity, which significantly increases the number of cases among children, adolescents and adults all over the world, leading to the occurrence of systemic disorders. A noticeable increase in the incidence of atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome and diabetes leads to a reduction in life expectancy. The main aim of the work is to emphasize the seriousness of the contemporary problem, which causes impairment of the functioning of many systems. A secondary goal is to indicate the current standards of obesity treatment and how to deal with overweight.

Brief description of the state of knowledge: Obesity is a disease that affects nearly 800 million people around the world and affects every fourth Pole. Uncontrolled weight gain is caused; lifestyle changes, consumption of highly processed foods, and genetic and endocrine factors. It is a chronic disease with a tendency to relapse, with serious consequences and in need of diagnostics, personalized treatment, and often associated with psychological support.

Material and methods: The article analyzes the research to date and the latest treatment methods, which show that a person struggling with obesity is at risk of over 200 complications, including, for example, fatty liver, stroke, type 2 diabetes or cancer.

Results and conclusion:  According to our analysis, obesity is a pathological condition that is truly life-threatening. Despite the society's downplay of the problem, people affected by this disease struggle with many comorbidities that worsen their quality of life.