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Publications [#271249] of Kelly D. Brownell

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Journal Articles

  1. Brownell, KD (1998). Obesity management: A comprehensive plan. American Journal of Managed Care, 4(3 SUPPL.), S126-S132.
    (last updated on 2024/03/29)

    Abstract:
    The emerging concept of obesity is one of chronic disease requiring chronic care. Many healthcare professionals are not trained with this new concept and are faced with learning new weight management techniques that are likely to be more effective in the long term. Successful treatment must include an understanding of the biological, social, and psychological factors that may affect an individual's ability to manage his or her weight. It can be helpful for professionals and patients to eliminate the age-old concept of an ideal weight. Research now shows that even small amounts of weight loss, if maintained, can significantly improve health. With this in mind, the 10% or 15% weight loss commonly associated with pharmacotherapy or lifestyle modification programs can be viewed as a success. Lifestyle changes are essential to weight loss and maintenance, but programs vary widely in quality. The best lifestyle modification programs will be comprehensive and based in science. They will place more emphasis on the benefits of physical activity and will be able to deal with the myriad of psychological stresses commonly responsible for relapse. In addition, good programs should have specific techniques in place to deal with special situations such as binge eating. Since it is likely that reimbursement for the medical management of obesity will continue to grow, physicians must decide what level of service they are able to offer. For some, it will not be practical to provide comprehensive care. For whatever level is chosen, resources must exist to assure that each patient receives quality weight management assistance.


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