The prevalence of obesity in the United States has doubled in the past two decades. Nearly one­third of adults are obese, that is, they have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater. One of the fastest growing segments of the population is that with a BMI with accompanying comorbidities.

Over the last two decades, the prevalence of overweight among children and adolescents has increased substantially; it is estimated that as many as 16 percent of children and adolescents are overweight, representing a doubling of the rate among children and tripling of the rate among adoles­ cents. Read the rest of this entry »

A simple checklist that ensures everyone in the operating room is on the same page reduces complications and saves lives, researchers report. Read the rest of this entry »