Prevention and management of obesity in a lifetime perspective.

Abstract

The prevalence of obesity is increasing across all geographies. Obesity develops due to a disruption of the energy balance regulation. However, the cause is not well understood. Identification of causal factors that may be modified is crucial to reduce the prevalence of obesity. However, the interventions needed will likely differ between life stages. Hence, obesity research should span from pre-conception to adulthood. In this review, we point to gaps and limitations in existing research, highlight recently initiated studies from which we are awaiting results and point to future directions.