The New York Times News Service has reported that the American Medical Association has officially recognized obesity as a disease, a move reportedly done to encourage physicians to take a more active role with their patients who have this condition. “Recognizing obesity as a disease will help the medical community tackle this complex issue now affecting one in three Americans,” stated Patrice Harris, a member of the association’s board.
I am unsure what this means since the definition of what constitutes a disease is debated. Still even though the AMA has no authority, having the nation’s largest physician group make the declaration would bring more focus to the disease or condition or whatever label is attached. Morgan Downey, publisher of the online Downey Obesity Report believes it might improve reimbursement.
Two new obesity drugs Qysmia and Belviq have entered the market. We hear more and more advertising for obesity drugs, supplements which speed up the metabolism, and bariatric surgery. Everyone has a new diet plan. The question I want to throw out is why? Why do we have the problem? Why are there so many products on the market? Why are the rates of obesity soaring? Why do we need to call obesity a disease in the first-place?
I agree this is the nation’s greatest health issue. If we understand why, we might be able to make some headway. I would like providers to get reimbursed for sitting down with the patient and finding the “why” for each individual patient and working out a long- term plan. The why might be different for each individual. The why usually involves the brain and relationships and is not as simple as telling someone to take a pill, eat less or exercise more. Loving and not judging are two other important treatment considerations.
When the complexity is realized and the reasons why are addressed, we have a chance. With two In three affected, rising rates, and resulting medical conditions, we must do more than call this condition a disease. This is an economic crisis as well. We need to go to war against obesity as this condition is literally killing us. Obesity, Is it a disease? Is it a crisis? Is it a symptom of a sick world?
Useful info. Hope to see more good posts in the future.
I think so. I think your article will give those people a good reminding. And they will express thanks to you later.
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I agree that medical professionals need to work more at finding the “why” of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms. This takes time and commitment by both the medical person and the patient. Thank you for your refreshing article.
It’s not as hard as people make out to be. I n
Mean losing weight.
Find an activity that gets your heartrate up, one that you enjoy. If its fun to you, you will make time to do it. Nutrition…it’s basic eat within 30 minutes of rising to start your metabolism. Make it small and with healthy choices then eat every 3 hours after that. Here is something people never do….drink enough water! Cleanses the body, rids us of toxins and makes us hydrated, feelings of fullness. There r some other small things. But it is very basic.
Thank you Lord for this man to open the door for science and to be utilizes through a Christian view.