Obesity Conference: A Real Eye-Opener

Last week, I attended the Obesity Conference presented by the American Society of Bariatric Physicians. What an eye-opener!

Two thirds of all Americans are now considered overweight or obese! And the problem is "ever-expanding" in that more children are facing challenges with excess weight. At the conference, I learned that it is now predicted that the current generation will not outlive their parents!

How does excess weight impact the "Renal Community?"

Excess weight is directly related to the following conditions. Certainly, Diabetes, Hypertension, and Metabolic Syndrome increase risks for End Stage Renal Failure (CKD-5). But note how much overlap we see between ESRD and the other conditions listed.

• Type II Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Stroke
• Erectile Dysfunction
• Abnormal cholesterol
• Asthma
• Depression
• And ON!

I learned that even a 5-10% reduction in weight is medically significant. And -- no surprise -- exercise is essential to keeping weight off on a long-term basis.

The problems of excess weight have become so concerning that we will be offering a Weight Management Program in my Family Practice, Queen Anne Medical Associates, PLLC, beginning in June 2010. I feel we are at a point where it's irresponsible NOT to offer a Weight Management Program of some sort. 

Link to http://www.QueenAnneMedicalWeightLoss.com/ for more information.

And, for our new Weight Loss blog, go to http://www.QAMedicalWeightLoss.blogspot.com/.

Take care. Linda Gromko, MD

IMPORTANT ADDENDUM: ESRD patients should attempt a weight reduction program ONLY with the approval of their nephrologist and renal dietician!