Prevention: There is insufficient evidence to recommend in favour of or against community-based obesity prevention programs. However, in view of the major health risk associated with obesity, and the limited long-term effectiveness of weight-reduction methods, the prevention of obesity should be a high priority for health care providers.
Screening methods: BMI is recommended for detecting overweight, while skin fold thickness measurements, especially of the triceps, may be considered for screening for obesity.
Treatment: There is insufficient evidence to recommend in favour of or against weight-reduction therapy because of a lack of evidence supporting the long-term effectiveness of weight-reduction methods. However, surgery is recommended for treatment of morbidly obese children.