ABSTRACT
Obesity continues to be a growing problem. Some patients see their general practitioners (GPs) for advice on their weight, some may be receiving treatment for a medical condition caused by obesity, coronary heart disease, osteoarthritis of weight-bearing joints, diabetes, while others attend with depression or psychological problems caused by obesity. The life expectancy of obese patients is shortened by an average of around seven years - more if the obesity starts early in life or the condition is severe. Obesity is more harmful to health than drinking, smoking or poverty. Obesity in pregnancy is as harmful as smoking. The inclusion of obesity in the Quality and Outcomes Framework means that GPs are able to decide whether the patient's expectations are realistic and whether they are really motivated. GPs and their teams are in a position to make a real impact on the treatment of obesity and overweight people. Obesity affects sexual behavior.
