Question

Today you are meeting with Pat, a 42-year-old Caucasian woman, here today for a physical examination. Pat wants to join a local health club. It is required by the facility that she provides a physician’s clearance prior to participation in their exercise/weight loss program. Pat’s BMI is calculated at 28 kg/m2. Her blood glucose is 179 mg/dL. Pat has indicated that she has struggled with her weight for over 20 years. She has tried numerous diets and her weight has fluctuated by 100 pounds (between 155 and 255 pounds). Her current weight is 200 pounds and her goal is to lose 60 pounds. Currently, she reports she has been getting really short of breath with minimal activity and she has been told that her blood pressure is elevated. Today her BP is 148/94.

1. Is Pat considered overweight or obese?

2. What factors could have contributed to excessive weight gain for Pat?

4. What health risks should you discuss with Pat, which are increased with excessive body fat?

5. What treatment principles are the basis for reducing weight?

Answer 1

1. Pat is considered as overweight.  

A BMI of 25 to 29 kg /m2 is defined as overweight.

2. Dietary changes , physical activity , Race or ethinicity

4. Being overweight can have a serious impact on health such as high blood pressure , sleep apnea , fatty liver , kidney disease, cardiovascular disease , type 2 diabetes mellitus , musculoskeletal disorders and premature death and substantial disability .

5. Principles of healthy weight reduction are

Balanced diet , selective restrictions , self monitoring, motivation.