The Challenge of Obesity in the WHO European Region and the Strategies for Response

The Challenge of Obesity in the WHO European Region and the Strategies for Response: Summary Editor: WHO Bibliographic Data: (ISBN: 978-9289013888, World Health Organization, 2007, 27. 75) 73 pages, soft cover. Subjects: Nutrition, Public Health. DESCRIPTION: This is an extended executive summary of the problems of, and avenues that may lead to solutions for, the global epidemic of overweight and obesity. The book's five chapters cover the statistics describing the prevalence and impact of obesity, the causes and suspected causes of obesity, findings from interventions related to the prevention of obesity, obesity treatment, and policies that may be developed to counteract the obesity epidemic. PURPOSE: To establish a framework through which government bodies and academic experts can interact to identify the environmental causes of obesity and develop policies to stem the tide of increasing adiposity. The book makes it clear that (a) mass educational projects and individual efforts have not been sufficient to limit population-wide weight gain, and (b) that a need exists to develop national and international solutions to the problem at the policy level. AUDIENCE: This summary is intended for individuals in public health, nutrition, and medicine. Although the title implies an emphasis on European nations, the book describes a global health problem and includes information applicable to most countries. FEATURES: This comprehensive review is extensively referenced and includes excellent figures, tables, and bulleted summaries of relevant information. There is no index, but a detailed table of contents directs the reader to specific sections. The book is exceptionally current and focused. ASSESSMENT: The book accomplishes its goals of providing a scientifically sound summary of the problem of obesity and potential public health approaches to addressing the problem. Because the book is short, it does not cover topics in depth, This publication is well organized, extensively documented, and provides the reader with the tools to find critical source material. RATING: ★★★★ Reviewer: Dale Schoeller, PhD (University of Wisconsin-Madison)