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New Standards of Care in Obesity Medications

The Obesity Association™, a division of the American Diabetes Association®, has recently unveiled significant advancements in the management of obesity through the publication of updated guidelines. The new section titled "Pharmacologic Treatment of Obesity in Adults" is featured in the inaugural edition of Diabetes, Obesity, and Cardiometabolic CARE® as well as in BMJ Open Diabetes Research Care.

Dr. Samar Hafida, vice president of the Obesity Association, emphasized the importance of these guidelines, stating that they represent a pivotal step in promoting a proactive, unified approach to managing cardiometabolic diseases. The guidelines aim to enhance understanding of obesity's biological origins, thereby improving care and treatment outcomes.

Key Recommendations from the New Guidelines

The Obesity Association's guidelines highlight a person-centered, shared decision-making approach. Here are the key recommendations for healthcare professionals:

1. Person-Centered Approach: Individuals living with obesity should actively participate in discussions about their treatment options, particularly regarding medication selection. This method emphasizes tailoring treatment plans to fit each individual's health needs and lifestyle preferences.
2. Primary Goals of Treatment: The ultimate objective of obesity treatment is to facilitate optimal health outcomes. Initial treatment plans should focus on weight reduction and staving off weight gain while minimizing the risk of obesity-related conditions.
3. Conditions Addressed through Medication: The guidelines outline the need for medication-assisted treatment to manage various obesity-related diseases, such as:
- Prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Sleep apnea
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)
- Osteoarthritis
4. Long-Term Management Focus: Emphasis is placed on the need for sustained management of obesity and any medications prescribed. Consistent monitoring and counseling are critical to ensuring proper nutritional intake, including necessary proteins and micronutrients.
5. Considerations for Childbearing Women: Special guidance is provided for individuals of childbearing potential regarding the choice of obesity medications.
6. Standards for Medication Availability: Clinicians are encouraged to switch patients to alternative FDA-approved obesity medications if the initially prescribed option becomes unavailable. The use of non-FDA approved compounded products is discouraged.
7. Infrastructure for Treatment: The guidelines advocate for establishing robust clinical practices that include adequate training and education for healthcare providers to support effective obesity management.

A Shift in The Obesity Care Narrative

These recommendations align with the Obesity Association's broader mission to reshape the dialogue surrounding obesity care. Rather than viewing obesity merely as a personal failing, the association underscores its complexity as a chronic disease affecting millions in the U.S. Each year, obesity is responsible for up to 53% of new Type 2 diabetes cases. By reducing stigma and focusing on education, the Obesity Association aims to improve the health outcomes of those affected.

Overall, the latest standards of care bring attention to the pressing need for a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to obesity management. Such initiatives promise to enhance patients' lives and facilitate better health outcomes across the population.

About the Obesity Association

Established under the American Diabetes Association, the Obesity Association is dedicated to combating the obesity epidemic through education, advocacy, and research. Its commitment lies in enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with obesity.

About the American Diabetes Association

With a mission to end diabetes, the American Diabetes Association has been at the forefront of research and programs aimed at preventing and managing diabetes for 85 years. The organization actively engages in advocacy efforts and community outreach, helping millions live healthier lives.

For more information or to get involved, visit diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES.