The management of all patients considered overweight or who have obesity requires a combination of diet, exercise, and behavioral modification. In addition, some patients may eventually require pharmacologic therapy and/or bariatric surgery. The health risk posed by excess adiposity should be evaluated before beginning any treatment program for each individual patient. Selection of treatment can then be made using a risk-benefit assessment. The choice of therapy is dependent on several factors, including the degree of overweight or obesity, comorbidities, and patient preference.
It is important to set goals when discussing a dietary weight loss program with an individual patient. The doctor should review with the patient the importance of weight loss on physical, mental, and functional health; assist the patient with developing a plan of action; and provide support with each stage of the process.
● Weight loss of 5 to 7 percent of body weight carries numerous health benefits and should be sought as an initial weight loss goal.
●Weight loss of more than 5 percent can reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus.
