Diagnosing and Treating Overweight and Obese Patients

Obesity is an epidemic in the United States. As statistics indicate that the problem is growing, the purpose of this course is to educate healthcare professionals about the epidemiology and treatment of overweight and obese patients. Clinical management, presentation, diagnosis, and behavioral and medical management will be reviewed to assist healthcare professionals in encouraging their patients to lose weight and prevent obesity-related comorbidities. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented. 


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to: 


1. Discuss the clinical background of obesity, noting the various definitions.

2. Discuss the epidemiology of overweight and obese individuals in the United States, based on age, race, and socioeconomic status.

3. Describe the pathophysiology of obesity, including genetic and environmental factors.

4. Identify the risk factors for and comorbidities of obesity.

5. Explain the various treatment modalities for overweight/obese patients.

6. Describe dietary and physical activity recommendations.

7. Discuss available pharmacologic agents, including indications and adverse reactions, used to treat obese/overweight patients.

8. Discuss surgical options, including restriction and bypass operations.

9. Explain the reimbursement climate for overweight/obesity treatments.

10. Outline considerations necessary when caring for patients for whom English is a second language.


This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.