What role can primary care professionals play in patient weight control?
Studies show that short 3- to 5-minute conversations during routine visits can contribute to patient behavior change. In one study, patients who were obese and were advised by their health care professionals to lose weight were three times more likely to try to lose weight than patients not advised. Research has also shown that patients who were counseled in a primary care setting about the benefits of healthy eating and physical activity lost weight, consumed less fat, and exercised more than patients who did not receive counseling. Unfortunately, the majority of primary care professionals do not talk with their patients about weight. Most people who are overweight or obese want assistance in setting and achieving weight-loss goals, but may hesitate to broach the topic during office visits. Talk with your patients about their weight-related goals, acknowledging that weight management is a challenging process. Explain that you want to help them lose weight, reduce their health risks, a
