How to provide a structured clinical assessment of a patient with overweight or obesity

Abstract

With the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity worldwide, there is a reciprocal increase in the global economic burden and ill‐health from obesity‐related chronic diseases. Primary healthcare services have a role to play in ensuring early detection of weight issues and in directing patients towards evidence‐based care to slow this progression. Research shows that many people with obesity are motivated to lose weight and want their clinician to initiate a conversation about weight management and treatment options. However, this conversation rarely occurs and there is a significant delay in treatment, resulting in an increased burden on the individual, healthcare system and society. In this paper, the components and rationale for the clinical assessment of adult patients with overweight or obesity, including anthropometric measurements and pathology tests, are described. Recommendations to ascertain the potential factors influencing the development of obesity in the patient, such as lifestyle factors (diet and physical activity) and mental health, are also provided. The potential sequelae of obesity that may be present and the necessary assessments for diagnosis are also addressed. These assessments are vital to ensure the patient is referred to the appropriate allied health services and/or specialists.

Intrafamilial variability in six family members with ERF‐related craniosynostosis syndrome type 4

“…Since five of our six family members were overweight or obese, this could be a new aspect of the clinical spectrum of patients with CRS4, as other possible causes for obesity were not present. To rule out another etiology for obesity (i.e., endocrine, psychological, dietary, or activity factors) according to Aggarwal and Jain (2018), we followed the diagnostic approach recommended by Bessell et al (2021). There are only three other reported patients with CRS4 who were born prematurely (Balasubramanian et al, 2017; Korberg et al, 2020).…”

Associations Among Knee Osteoarthritis Severity, Body Mass Index, and Physical Functions in Saudi Arabian Adults: A Multi-Center Cross-Sectional Study

“…The BMI was calculated by dividing weight in kilograms (kg) by square meters (m 2 ) height. A high BMI was defined as a BMI score greater than 25 kg/m 2 [18].…”

Clinical evaluation of patients living with obesity

“…Motivational interviewing should be incorporated and is a technique which utilises goal-setting. A recent meta-analysis demonstrated more significant BMI reduction with motivational interviewing consultations, highlighting the importance of effective communication and a patient-centred approach in therapeutic decision-making [ 34 , 35 ]. The language used by HCPs when assessing a patient living with obesity is vital, with research indicating that weight destigmatising language improves patient adherence to treatment.…”

“…Their role can potentially reduce the prevalence of significant obesity and reduce complication severity. For instance, if weight management is instigated when a patient has prediabetes, this will help to reverse the condition and prevent diabetes development [ 35 ]. Lifestyle intervention can be delivered in primary care: including aspects of self-monitoring, goal monitoring and psychological input.…”