Management of Obesity in Primary Care

Authors

M Kate Scott, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Family Medicine

Advisor

Dr. Mark Archambault

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the appropriate management of obesity in primary care and discuss the steps that can help patients achieve weight loss and improvement of their comorbidities associated with obesity.

Method: PubMed literature searches and Google Scholar searches were performed using the search terms obesity, primary care, weight reduction, weight loss, liraglutide, phentermine, topiramate and bupropion. Twenty-four pertinent articles were discovered to support the review’s practical application of obesity management in primary care.

Results: The evidence suggests patients with obesity treated in primary care were more successful at their weight loss efforts and had improved access to care.

Conclusion: Obesity is a chronic disease¹ that can be effectively managed in the primary care setting. Primary care providers can offer long term obesity management consisting of dietary suggestions, physical activity recommendations, behavioral modifications, and prescribing of anti-obesity medications. More patients have access to weight management in the primary care setting.

Recommended Citation

Scott MK. Management of Obesity in Primary Care. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 3(3).