113 Dziurowicz_Layout 1

Obesity is a multifactor, chronic metabolic disease involving an excessive build-up of adipose tissue in the body. The severity of obesity is measured with the Body Mass Index (BMI). A BMI within the range of 25-29.9 kg/m indicates overweight, while a BMI exceeding 30 kg/m indicates obesity. The higher the BMI, the greater the disease risk for obesity-related comorbidities. Currently more than half of adult Poles are overweight or obese. Obesity leads to considerable deterioration of every dimension of healthrelated quality of life. At the physical level, it increases the risk of incidence of lifestyle diseases, leading to reduced fitness and many physical limitations. At the social level, it is a source of negative stereotypes and prejudices which lead to the stigmatization, depreciation and discrimination of obese people. At the psychological level, it leads to depressed mood, low self-esteem and body image dissatisfaction, and increases the risk of several mental disorders. It is not necessary to have an ideal or even normal BMI to achieve positive health outcomes. Even a 510% weight loss has many positive effects on health and wellbeing.