Obesity is an excess of body fat tissue. It is associated with increased cell size and number. Population studies indicate a direct correlation between Body Mass Index (BMI) and morbidity and mortality. Ranges of BMI have been established for the purpose of analyzing and developing guidelines for effective approaches in the treatment and prevention of obesity. It is now accepted that an increase in body weight of 20 percent or more above normal constitutes a health hazard and is considered obese. People with mild obesity may be at risk if they have associated co-morbidities or the risk factors of these diseases.

The high prevalence of obesity in our adult population and the likelihood that these conditions will become more critical demand a reassessment of the health implications of this condition. Clinical observations have long suggested a relationship of morbid obesity with many illnesses.