Croatia is facing a serious rise in obesity; today, as many as 65% of adults and 35% of children are overweight, placing the country among the highest in Europe.
World Obesity Day is marked every year on March 4. It is an opportunity to raise awareness and remind the public that obesity is one of today’s most urgent public health challenges.
Obesity is a serious chronic disease
This year, World Obesity Day focuses on the most vulnerable among us, children. The campaign slogan, “8 billion reasons to act on obesity,” aims to encourage action across the entire global population.
Obesity is not an aesthetic issue. It is a serious chronic disease that increases the risk of diabetes, heart attack, stroke, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, and degenerative joint disease.
Obesity develops under the influence of many factors, including genetic, psychological, and socioeconomic factors, as well as dietary habits and lifestyle.
To treat obesity effectively, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive health assessment and select the most appropriate therapeutic approach.
Cardiologist Kibel: weight reduction for a healthier heart
At Priora, the initial assessment for obesity treatment is conducted by cardiologist Assoc: Prof. Aleksandar Kibel, MD, PhD. The consultation focuses on a detailed cardiovascular evaluation and on identifying metabolic and hormonal factors that may contribute to weight gain and make weight loss more difficult. Patients then receive an individualized treatment plan, which may include pharmacological therapy, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to achieve long-term, sustainable results.
“Primarily as a cardiologist, I focused on obesity treatment because meaningful weight reduction can significantly lower the risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes such as heart attack, stroke, coronary artery disease, and peripheral arterial disease, thereby reducing cardiovascular mortality. It’s important to understand that obesity is a disease, recognized in the international classification of diseases, and raising awareness among patients is crucial,” emphasizes Prof. Kibel.
Obesity treatment is not a short-term process; it is an investment in long-term health and quality of life. The first step is an expert assessment and an individualized therapy plan. We are here to help you start your journey toward a healthier life.
