Abstract
Obesity is a global problem, independent of age. The numbers of obese individuals are now reaching epidemic proportions around the world. This is contributing to the risk of inherent co morbidity. The Pathophysiology of obesity, although widely debated, is still unclear with suggestions that multiple genetic mutations may have a key role in the development, but as yet no one genetic mutation is felt to be entirely responsible. Biochemical manifestations such as diabetes may play a role. The first goal of management of the obese patient will involve dietary and behavioral modification and a programme of physical exercise. In primary care settings, nurses are suitably placed to assess and manage obese patients (National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE), 2001a). The nursing profession needs to rise to the challenge and prepare nurses for a specialist role in obesity management.