Understanding the difference between overweight, obese and bariatric

The World Health Organization (WHO) (2006) describes that overweight and obesity are due to abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat (adipose tissue) that may impair health. Obesity is often due to a combination of a less active lifestyle and alterations of eating patterns over time. Some people are more susceptible to weight gain due to medication, or for genetic reasons. However, the fundamental cause of obesity is consuming more calories than are expended. It is important for patients, and staff, to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

McCormick et al (2007) note: ‘Obesity imposes a significant human burden of morbidity, mortality, social exclusion and discrimination.’ This ranges from its effects on a person's health to their physical management due to their size. The psychological damage caused by overweight and obesity is a huge health burden, and the consequences of obesity can range from lowered self-esteem to clinical depression (The Health Select Committee (HSC), 2004).