Statistical results of a study monitoring the occurrence of obesity in the Czech population between 1985 and 2000 were published by the Czech Society of General Practice, in the recommended diagnostic and treatment guidelines for general practitioners under the heading 'Obesity'. In these recommended guidelines, a collective of reputable authors characterize the illness, as well as review the epidemiological data and aetiology of this illness according to the latest know-how in contemporary science. They recommend comprehensive therapeutic procedures in outpatient practice and assess the goals of weight-loss treatment. This comprehensive treatment of obesity is founded on 3 main pillars, namely on dietary measures, changes in physical activity using cognitive behavioural techniques, and the use of targeted pharmacotherapy. In conclusion, a clear recommended algorithm for the diagnosis and treatment of obesity for general practitioners is provided (Ref. 3). Full Text (Free, PDF) www.bmj.sk.