The European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) has recently published an article about the initiative to create a standardised and scientifically accurate language for obesity. EASO aimed to provide a consistent terminology akin to that used for other major non-communicable diseases, recognising the lack of a common language for obesity, (NCDs).

Methods

To achieve this, EASO conducted an online Delphi consensus study. This involved a panel of experts from various stakeholder groups, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, individuals with lived experience, and researchers. The panel developed 54 statements across six themes based on the understanding of obesity as an adiposity-based chronic disease. These themes included:

  1. Definition of Obesity
  2. Causes, Onset, and Progression
  3. Obesity Prevention
  4. Screening and Early Diagnosis
  5. Treatment and Management
  6. Consequences of Obesity

Results

Out of 194 invited experts, participation rates were 36%, 33%, and 30% across three rounds. Consensus on definitions and contextual usage was achieved as follows: 70% after the first round, 94% after the second, and 100% after the third. Key results included:

– Defining obesity at both population and individual levels, including pre-obesity.

– Characterising the timing of obesity development.

– Differentiating between health promotion and primary prevention.

– Supporting a continuum of care model in screening, early diagnosis, treatment, and management.

– Encompassing both health and socio-economic consequences of obesity.

Conclusion

The resulting taxonomy provides a contemporary, evidence-based language for discussing obesity. This standardised language aligns with terminology used for policy-prioritised NCDs and is intended for use in education, advocacy, and communication. It is a valuable resource for policymakers, healthcare professionals, individuals living with obesity, researchers, and health system users.

Find full article here

21 June, 2024

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