Obesity Management Obesity has reached epidemic proportions with almost 65% of adults and 15% of children in the United States having a weight that negatively affects their health. The overweight person is at greater risk for many diseases including heart, diabetes, and arthritis, which are major health problems. It poses health hazards that cannot be underestimated and both compromises and complicates treatment of these and many other diseases and disabilities. Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable mortality in the United States each year behind only cigarette smoking. Underlying causes of obesity include genetic propensity, inadequate physical activity and poor nutritional habits. A wide variety of complex behaviors contribute to the development of both childhood and adult obesity. The physicians at OB-GYN Associates are familiar with approved medicines and treatments and dietary plans and will provide practical advice and information about the causes, prevention and treatment of obesity, with an emphasis on lifestyle practices and habits and how to work towards a healthier you.