Obesity is a multifaceted chronic disease influenced by genetic, biological, behavioral, and environmental factors. Yet, it remains one of the most stigmatized and undertreated conditions. Studies reveal that counseling rates for obesity are low among healthcare providers, often due to time constraints, lack of training, and fear of offending patients. These barriers, coupled with the physiological adaptations that resist weight loss, highlight the importance of recognizing obesity as a medical condition requiring comprehensive management strategies.
The Edmonton Obesity Staging System offers a valuable framework for risk stratification, emphasizing a patient-centered approach that goes beyond BMI. Incorporating obesity-focused histories and motivational interviewing can guide tailored interventions that improve quality of life and reduce obesity-related comorbidities.
As healthcare professionals, how can we redefine patient identification to ensure early, respectful, and effective obesity care? What tools or strategies have you found helpful in expanding the scope of patients considered appropriate for treatment?
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Sorin Herscovici, MANCHESTER VA MEDICAL CENTER11moLook not only at BMI but also at Family and Habits risk factors as well as lifestyle and waist circumference -
Richard Moro, HEALTHCALL MEDICAL CENTER,LLC11moobesity has a multifactorial side effects from mental health to physical complaints with diseases from obesity.