Whittling away at obesity and overweight

Abstract

PREVIEWObesity is an epidemic in the United States, where most adults are overweight or obese. The link between obesity and a broad range of significant medical comorbidities and mortality portends staggering healthcare, social, and economic costs. In this article, the authors discuss how primary care physicians can assess their obese or overweight patient's willingness to make changes that can reduce weight and promote health and fitness. They explore why focusing on diet, lifestyle, and behaviors for health promotion and fitness is often more effective than zeroing in on weight loss alone.