Medical Solutions For Obesity

Welcome to another edition of the Doctor’s Note where we talk about what’s on our minds when it comes to your health.

This week I’m returning to the subject of obesity and the life-changing new medications that are available to help us fight it. There’s still a considerable amount of misunderstanding and stigma surrounding obesity—many people still don’t recognize it as the serious, multifactorial disease it truly is. One of the biggest messages from current medical literature—and my years in practice—is that obesity isn’t about failing at willpower or making bad choices. Instead, it’s often the result of complex metabolic processes that go beyond personal control. This reality explains why countless individuals struggle to maintain weight loss through diet and exercise alone. The American Medical Association definitively recognized obesity as a disease in 2013, and it’s time for all of us—patients and providers alike—to treat it with the seriousness it deserves.

The true game-changer in recent years has been the advent of medications targeting GLP-1 and GIP hormones. I consider these the most monumental advancement in obesity treatment since the discovery of insulin, with the potential to transform countless lives. While they’re not suitable for every single patient, the vast majority of those suffering from obesity now have access to effective, sustainable treatment. Alongside these medical advances, we must also work to eliminate the social bias and discrimination that overweight individuals face, focusing on treating the root cause of disease, not just managing its costly and life-altering effects like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

PODCAST NOTES

• Obesity is a Disease: The medical consensus now recognizes obesity as a genuine, chronic disease rather than a simple matter of personal choices or weak willpower. This scientific perspective acknowledges that metabolic syndrome underlies obesity in most cases—meaning it is governed by hormones, genetics, and biology as much as by lifestyle factors. Understanding this helps reduce blame and shame, and shifts the discussion from faulty character to real medical treatment.

• Stigma is Harmful: The stigma and discrimination that people with obesity face are almost as widespread as those based on race—an eye-opening and troubling statistic. For women especially, the consequences of weight stigma can be devastating, leading to poorer health outcomes, reluctance to seek medical care, and even greater struggles with weight. Overcoming societal judgment is essential to creating an environment where people can pursue treatment without shame or fear.

• New Medication Breakthroughs: Medications that target GLP-1 and GIP hormones represent, in my view, the most important development in obesity medicine of the 21st century. These drugs work by addressing the metabolic dysfunction at the heart of obesity, often leading to dramatic weight loss and improvements in related conditions. Their impact could one day be seen as comparable to the arrival of insulin for diabetes or penicillin for infections.

• Not for Everyone, but for Most: These medications aren’t for everyone—patients with certain medical histories (like pancreatitis or rare cancers) may not qualify. However, a majority of people struggling with obesity are good candidates and can achieve remarkable results under a doctor’s supervision. It is extremely important to personalize treatment and to be monitored by a healthcare provider who understands the nuances of these therapies.

• Comorbidities Disappear When Treating Root Cause: By directly addressing obesity instead of just the resulting complications (such as diabetes, hypertension, depression, or high cholesterol), we can often minimize or eliminate the need for multiple other prescriptions. I’ve seen many patients reduce or even discontinue medications as their obesity is treated—improving quality of life and decreasing long-term health risks.

• Obesity's Enormous Cost: The toll that obesity takes is not only physical but also financial. Obesity leads to $385 billion in U.S. health costs annually, with those affected having exponentially higher medical claims and insurance costs, and twice as many workers compensation cases. Classifying and treating obesity isn’t just about personal health, it affects employers, insurance companies, and the entire healthcare system.

• These Medications are for Maintenance: GLP-1 and similar medications are not quick fixes.They function much like ongoing therapies for hypertension or diabetes— meant to be continued long-term. If someone stops the medication, the weight often returns. The best outcomes occur when doses are slowly reduced to a safe maintenance level and continued—helping to keep both weight and comorbid diseases at bay.

• A Physician’s Role: It can be challenging for providers to address obesity, especially in time-constrained settings. But as physicians, it’s our responsibility to talk honestly—even if the subject is sensitive or uncomfortable. My philosophy is that it’s better to address the “elephant in the room” with empathy and evidence-based solutions, so we can offer real hope and help, not just a temporary fix or avoidance.

I want to emphasize that if you or a loved one is struggling with obesity, you are not alone and this is not your fault. With groundbreaking advancements in medication and a deeper understanding of the underlying causes, there are now real, sustainable options to improve your health, extend your life, and enhance your well-being. 

Please, don’t let stigma or misinformation stop you from seeking help. Reach out to a medical provider experienced in modern obesity treatment. My team at Performance Medicine would love to help you take the next step on your journey to lasting health.

Stay educated. Stay healthy. 

Till next week.