Obesity Disease Management

Obesity disease management entails the adoption of a range of short and long-term strategies; which might include prevention, weight maintenance, and above all self discipline. The individual has got to really want to undertake an obesity disease management programme, otherwise it is doomed to failure. Obesity is one of the most common medical problems in the western world, and creates additional risk factor for illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes and degenerative arthritis. Many patients accomplish weight loss with diet, exercise and lifestyle modification, but others will require a more assertive therapy in their obesity disease management schedule.

Family physicians will work with patients on an obesity disease management programme and methods to achieve and maintain weight loss. Matters such as learning how to choose more nutritious meals that are lower in fat, together with becoming more physically active; and possibly keeping records of them both. Some simple activities that can form the basis of an obesity disease management scheme might be something as straightforward as taking the stairs rather than an elevator or escalator; or maybe get off the bus a few stops early and walk the rest of the way.

Psychological factors may also influence eating habits and this can play a big part in an obesity disease management plan. Many people eat in response to negative emotions such as boredom, sadness, or anger. Obesity often is viewed as the result of a lack of willpower and this is where obesity disease management can have a dramatic effect. Improving people’s self-esteem and conquering depression will significantly alter an individuals eating routine; so again this too can be structured to be part of the obesity disease management approach.