Obesity is a metamorphosis of the human body, which has accompanied humanity since its origins but developed into a pandemic only over the last thirty years. Is it a sickness? Yes, to a certain degree. There is no doubt that accumulation of adipose tissue is associated with somatic pathologies, functional disabilities, and psycho-social problems; life expectancy drops, and quality of life worsens, in part due to the stigma attached to being "fat". Treatment is difficult, and its success a rare accomplishment. This book addresses a wide array of issues involving obesity, including its causes, the reasons for its intensification, current medical therapies, controversial bariatric surgery, and prevention programmes. At which age is it best to intervene? Which are the most promising strategies? What do cost-benefit analyses have to say on the topic? What are the ethical dilemmas entailed by obesity prevention?

Ottavio Bosello used to teach Internal Medicine at the University of Verona, where he directed the Geriatrics Clinic and the Department of Biomedical Science. He was a founding member and past president of the Italian Obesity Society and the Italian Society for the Study of Eating Disorders.

Massimo Cuzzolaro used to teach Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology at the University of Rome, where he also directed a nutrition and weight disorder clinic. He was a founding member of the Italian Obesity Society and the Italian Society for the Study of Eating Disorders.