This talk will set the scene for the four subsequent talks in the morning, and act as a general introduction for the entire three days. The pattern of BMI rise in developed nations will be shown along with a description of groups at particular risk of obesity or complications for given weight change. Several conditions linked to obesity but less well considered will also be briefly mentioned, for example, fatty liver disease, PCOS, pregnancy conditions and also some autoimmune conditions, to support need for obesity management is such areas. The need for better obesity management in diabetes patients will also be made. Of course, the obesity-cardiovascular link is commonly touted, but its causal role remains unclear with observational confusing J shaped curves. Similarly, BMI is not often taken into account in CVD risk scores, and why this is the case will also be explained. Finally, a brief discussion of the main drivers for obesity will be mentioned along with thoughts of what needs to be done by governments, health care professionals and public, to help stem the tide.