U. Sever
Klinični oddelek za endokrinologijo, diabetes in presnovne bolezni, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana

P. Kotnik
Klinični oddelek za endokrinologijo, diabetes in presnovne bolezni, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

A healthy diet, regular and appropriate physical activity and behavioural therapy are the cornerstones of obesity management. These measures are, however, relatively ineffective, as are medications affecting the appetite, digestion or metabolism. In addition, medications have unacceptable side effects, hence they are not regularly used in children and adolescents. Surgical and non-surgical bariatric procedures are an effective option for the treatment of marked obesity in adolescents when growth and pubertal development are completed. A coordinated multidisciplinary team, which includes a paediatrician, surgeon, psychologist, nutritionist, kinesiologist and a healthcare team, is essential in the contemporary management of obesity.

Key words: obesity, appetite, digestion, metabolism, medication, bariatric procedure.