Management of Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines (2019)

Guidelines on the management of adult obesity were released on January 23, 2019, by the EASO.^[1]

After clinical evaluation, have a discussion about obesity with the patient avoiding stigmatization and using motivational interviewing (a collaborative discussion that reinforces the patient’s own motivation towards behavioral change).

Communicate that modest slimming (eg, 3-5% from initial body weight) can have health benefits. Guide the patient toward weight loss amount based on the patient’s motivation. A 5-10% weight loss has significant impact in reducing comorbidities.

Set realistic calendar goals with the patient based on fat mass loss and a decrease in waist circumference rather than concentrating on body weight.

The first treatment goal is to stabilize body weight. Monitor weight loss and waist circumference every 1-2 weeks initially to evaluate the treatment plan. Monitor once a month after 6 months of treatment.

Initiate obesity management with a specific area (physical activity, nutrition, or psychological aspects).

Treat comorbidities first with lifestyle modification or pharmacotherapy if necessary.

Communicate the risks of weight cycling after weight loss.

Promote a self-management approach that includes healthy lifestyle maintenance, hunger management, and self-weighing.

For more Clinical Practice Guidelines, please go to Guidelines.

For more information, go to Obesity.

Any views expressed above are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of WebMD or Medscape.

Cite this: Management of Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines (2019) - Medscape - Mar 01, 2019.

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