Obesity in pregnancy has become one of the most important challenges in obstetrical care given its prevalence and potential adverse impact on both mother and fetus. Overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a health risk. A body mass index (BMI) over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 is obese. The issue has grown to epidemic proportions, with over 4 million people dying each year as a result of being overweight or obese in 2017 according to the global burden of disease. People with obesity worldwide has become a major challenge in this 21st century with an apparent irresistible rise of this epidemic since the 1970’s. Nowadays, it is evaluated that obese people (≥ 30 kg/m²) represent some one billion inhabitants (out of seven) on this planet. Overweight and obesity are associated with a variety of pregnancy complications and are considered the most common health risks during pregnancy.
Author(s) Details:
Pierre-Yves Robillard,
Service de Néonatologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sud Réunion, BP 350, 97448 Saint-Pierre Cedex, La Réunion, France and Centre d’Etudes Périnatales Océan Indien (CEPOI), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sud Réunion, BP 350, 97448 Saint-Pierre Cedex, La Réunion, France.
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