American Diabetes Association's New Standards of Care for Obesity
In a definitive move to tackle the growing obesity epidemic, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has unveiled new Standards of Care in Overweight and Obesity. This pivotal announcement was made during the 85th Scientific Sessions held in Chicago, where healthcare professionals and researchers convened to discuss advancements in diabetes care.
These new guidelines mark the first clinical framework of their kind, aiming to provide comprehensive, evidence-based instructions for health professionals who care for patients struggling with overweight and obesity. Recent statistics highlight the urgent need for such guidelines; approximately 110 million American adults are currently affected by obesity, signifying a national health crisis. Alarmingly, obesity is responsible for 53% of new type 2 diabetes cases annually, underscoring the need for immediate action.
The ADA's Obesity Association has emphasized the importance of addressing weight stigma and bias in healthcare settings as part of the new guidelines. Training programs for healthcare professionals are being introduced to foster inclusive clinical environments and to encourage person-centered communication and shared decision-making. The guidelines will also incorporate evidence-based interventions to combat obesity effectively.
During the symposium, attendees learned about potential additions to the guidelines, including a future section that focuses on pharmacologic treatments for obesity. This development is crucial as obesity management becomes increasingly complex, with various treatment avenues needing exploration.
Notable studies presented at the symposium include:
- - MariTide Study: A once-a-month treatment for obesity, pending results from a 52-week Phase 2 study.
- - ADJUST-T1D Trial: Insights on adjunctive Semaglutide treatment in type 1 diabetes patients.
- - BELIEVE Study: Exploring improved quality of weight loss while maintaining lean mass.
- - PATHWEIGH Trial: Developing frameworks for weight management in primary care.
- - ACHIEVE-1 Trial: Investigating the efficacy of Orforglipron in controlling diabetes.
- - REDEFINE Trials: Assessing the safety and efficacy of a new combination therapy for obesity.
Dr. Raveendhara Bannuru, the ADA's Vice President of Medical Affairs and lead author for these guidelines, expressed optimism about the potential impact of these standards.