Transforming Patient Care with the Obesity Algorithm: Practical Insights On-Demand-Improving Patient Care Video

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This session discusses transforming patient care for adults with obesity and adiposity-based chronic disease (ABCD) using the ACE Obesity Algorithm. Experts emphasize that obesity is a chronic disease requiring long-term, individualized, and stigma-free care focused on improving health and reducing obesity-related complications and diseases (ORCD), rather than just targeting weight loss. Diagnosis begins with anthropometric screening using BMI plus waist circumference or waist-to-height ratio, considering racial and ethnic differences. Clinical evaluation assesses the presence and severity of ORCD such as prediabetes, hypertension, liver disease, osteoarthritis, and sleep apnea. Patients are staged into three ABCD stages based on ORCD presence and severity, guiding treatment intensity. Treatment options include lifestyle and dietary changes, pharmacotherapy (first and second generation anti-obesity medications), and metabolic/bariatric surgery when appropriate, chosen based on patient goals, ORCD profile, side effects, contraindications, and socio-economic factors. Special attention is given to personalized nutrition, physical activity adapted to limitations, sleep quality, mental health screening, and addressing weight stigma. Follow-up adjusts therapy based on response and complications improvement. The approach favors complication-centric care over weight-centric goals, aiming for meaningful functional improvements. Integration of interdisciplinary teams—including dietitians and mental health specialists—supports holistic care delivery. The presenters advocate awareness of clinical guidelines, FDA indications, and equitable, empathetic care to optimize outcomes for individuals living with obesity.

Keywords

obesity

adiposity-based chronic disease

ACE Obesity Algorithm

anthropometric screening

obesity-related complications

pharmacotherapy

metabolic surgery

personalized nutrition

weight stigma