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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
James Lenhard, MD, Ellen Clevenger-Firley, MS, RD, Margaret Keenan, PhD, and Allen Prettyman, MSN, CFNP. Preventive Medicine & Rehabilitation Institute, Christiana Care Health System, 3506 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807
In December 2001, the Surgeon General issued a “Call to Action to Prevent and Decrease Overweight and Obesity.” Estimates are that 300,000 deaths annually are attributable to overweight and obesity. Morbidity is also high, with an increased risk for such conditions as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, orthopedic problems and certain cancers. Obesity among adults in the US has doubled since 1980, and an estimated 61% were overweight in 1999. The Surgeon General’s report characterizes overweight and obesity as having reached epidemic proportions.
The Weight Management Program serves individuals with a minimum body mass index of 30, or 27 with comorbidities. This unique program incorporates medical, nutritional, behavioral, and exercise interventions. There is also a surgical option of gastric bypass. The program has three phases: assessment, treatment and maintenance. The initial evaluation takes a comprehensive look at the individual’s health status and program needs, with particular attention paid to psychological factors that may present impediments to success. The treatment phase includes a 12-week behavior change program combined with exercise and periodic medical checkups. Program adjustments are made to meet the special needs of surgical patients. The maintenance phase includes monthly group meetings and ongoing medical and nutritional follow-up.
This program aims to reduce disease and disability from obesity, which threatens the nation’s future health. It is a model that addresses multiple factors that impact successful long-term weight loss.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Weight Management, Obesity
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Eugene du Pont Preventive Medicine & Rehabilitation Institute, Christiana Care Health System
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment