Abstract:

Morbid obesity is a serious disease that is responsible for several co-morbid conditions. Increased risks of hypertension, adult onset diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, pulmonary disease (Pickwickian syndrome), musculo-skeletal disorders, gallbladder disease, deep vein thrombosis, venous stasis ulcers, and increased prevalence of certain types of cancers (uterine, breast, colon carcinoma) have been reported, together with severe psychological and social disability. Nonsurgical treatment options including various combinations oflow-calorie or very-low-calorie diets, behavior modification, exercise, and drug therapy may achieve acceptable transient weight reduction but fail to maintain reduced body weight in most patients.

Authors:

Alessandro M. Paganini, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.S., Mario Guerrieri, M.D., Francesco Feliciotti, M.D., Emanuele Lezoche, M.D., F.A.C.S., Ospedale Umberto I, University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy

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