Medical evaluation of the obese individual

Obesity may be the most significant medical problem that health care providers will face over the coming decades. Physicians must address this chronic disease aggressively, providing preventive and therapeutic care. Because this topic traditionally has not been taught in medical school or residency training, physicians will need to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to be effective obesity care providers. Performing a detailed initial assessment, including an obesity-focused history, physical examination, and selected laboratory and diagnostic tests is fundamental to the process of care.