Abstract
Obesity is a heterogeneous disease characterised by increased accumulation of body fat in the organism, which is caused by a complex of interactions between genetic, hormonal, behavioural and environmental influences. When too much fat accumulates at certain locations, it becomes disadvantageous for the person as it is both a mechanical strain simply by its weight and in case of accumulation in the visceral area also a health risk leading to the cardio-metabolic syndrome and certain malignancies.
Obesity also impairs reproductive functions in women, by decreased fertility, more risky pregnancies and deliveries and limited lactation.