The RCP has endorsed a new publication by The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology Commission on Clinical Obesity, setting out a clinically-meaningful definition of disease in obesity as well as a definition of the objective criteria for its diagnosis.
Responding to the publication, Dr Kath McCullough, the RCP's special adviser on obesity, said:
“Obesity is a global health challenge of immense complexity and consequence, requiring a more nuanced and clinically sound framework to better understand and address its impact. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology Commission on Clinical Obesity has made a significant stride forward by creating a clinically meaningful definition of obesity and establishing clear criteria for its diagnosis. This lays a strong foundation for treating obesity with the same medical rigour and compassion as other chronic illnesses.
“For too long, we’ve relied on BMI as a simple measure of obesity, which has often misrepresented the condition and fails to fully reflect how excess body fat impacts a person’s health. The commission’s distinction between pre-clinical and clinical obesity represents a vital step forward, highlighting the need to identify and intervene early while providing appropriate care to those already experiencing severe health impacts.
“We fully support the commission’s recommendations to improve how obesity is diagnosed by including direct measurements of body fat, along with proven methods like waist size and other body measurements. We also support their focus on using treatment plans that are based on solid evidence and matched to how severe the condition is, aimed at improving health and preventing obesity-related illness from leading to organ damage. Equally important in both the prevention and treatment of obesity is the recognition of the pervasive weight stigma that undermines effective care. The commission rightly calls for a shift in societal attitudes, as well as education for healthcare professionals and policymakers, to ensure obesity is addressed with compassion and without bias.
“This work challenges us to adopt an approach that is both scientifically grounded and patient centred. By doing so, we can pave the way for better health outcomes, reduce the burden of obesity-related diseases, and restore dignity to individuals living with obesity. I commend the Lancet Commission on Clinical Obesity for providing a thoughtful and transformative roadmap for change."