Anti-obesity drugs

In 2008 more than 20 per cent of the adult UK population is obese and in the US two thirds of adults are either seriously overweight or obese. The causes of this 'epidemic' are not hard to find given the growing preference for energy-dense and nutrient-poor foods, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle.  

Obesity is linked to an increased risk of type-2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and several cancers, including those of the colon, prostate and breast. Yet for most overweight people the solution should be simple - change of diet and increased exercise - but in reality the majority of overweight people find it difficult or impossible to change their lifestyle. Hence the need for anti-obesity drugs.