obesity

Worldwide, the prevalence of both obesity and cancer are rising. So far, there is an association between obesity and an increased risk of at least 20 different cancers and this number is increasing. The mechanism behind obesity increasing the risk of cancer varies. The importance of looking at all aspects of obesity, such as hip to waist ratio, body fat distribution and waist circumference, in addition to BMI has been acknowledged in order to further understand these mechanisms.

Evidence shows that one of the main causes for rising obesity rates is
excessive consumption of sugar, which is due in large part to the high sugar content of most soda and juice drinks and junk foods. Worryingly, UK and global populations are consuming increasing amounts of sugary drinks and junk foods (high in salt, sugar and saturated fats). However, there is raised public awareness, and parents in particular want something to be done to curb the alarming rise in
childhood obesity.

In Scotland in recent years smoking, poor diet and excess alcohol have caused major public health problems. Knowledge of what is effective in the field of health behaviour change is therefore essential in achieving improvements in health. This symposium was convened with the purpose of ensuring that public health policy is informed by the best available evidence on effective interventions. As behaviour is complex, achieving change can be difficult and it is essential that interventions are properly planned, implemented and evaluated.

Controlling blood glucose in type 2 diabetes remains challenging. All existing drugs have significant limitations and side effects, with some causing weight gain and thereby exacerbating the condition. This short review looks at new groups of drugs on the market and under development, and discusses their potential in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Keywords DPP-IV inhibitors, hypoglycaemia, incretin mimetics, obesity, thiazolidinediones, type 2 diabetes, weight loss drugs

Genetics is a developing field that increasingly influences medical practice in a large number of specialties. This symposium highlighted how current research is providing insights into the genetic causes of disease, leading to a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology and identification of potential novel treatment strategies. We were provided with an overview of developments in monogenic conditions such as Marfan’s syndrome and Duchenne muscular dystrophy and complex traits such as atopic dermatitis.

Keywords Health inequalities, effective interventions, parenting, risk behaviours, obesity, aging

Declaration of Interests No conflict of interests declared.