China’s National Health Commission has released its first-ever guidelines to standardize the diagnosis and treatment of obesity, addressing a growing public health concern in the country.
The guidelines were introduced in response to the rising rates of overweight and obese individuals in China, highlighting obesity as an independent disease and a leading cause of numerous chronic health conditions. The commission noted that obesity is now the sixth leading risk factor for death and disability in the country.
The guidelines cover various aspects of obesity management, including clinical nutrition, medication therapy, surgical options, and behavioral and psychological interventions. They also emphasize exercise as a key part of treatment, while prioritizing the safety and quality of medical care and the protection of patient rights.
Zhang Zhongtao, director of the committee responsible for drafting the guidelines, underscored the importance of ensuring patient care is both effective and safe.
Experts behind the guidelines point out that most obesity cases stem from unhealthy lifestyles, emphasizing that the long-term solution to obesity lies in maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise to keep weight within healthy limits.
