Working With Patients With Weight-Associated Diseases

Scientific evidence shows that genetic and biological factors as well as social determinants of health affect body weight, yet many health professionals hold a belief that weight is a matter of personal responsibility and willpower. Psychologists can better help patients by educating themselves about the complex relationship between weight, disease, weight stigma, and weight cycling. This article discusses how weight-loss-first approaches impact health, reviews scientific evidence of the various factors that govern body weight and provides evidence-based treatments for treating patients with weight-related issues. Copyright 2024.

After reading the CE Corner article, you will be asked to complete a “Commitment-to-Change” (CTC) exercise. The CTC exercise is designed to help facilitate the translation of your learning into practice. Completion of the CTC is required prior to the completion of the CE test based on the APA Monitor CE Corner article.

This product is not included in the APA Unlimited CE program.

New York state psychologists: This program is not currently in compliance with the unique requirements imposed by the New York State Board of Education for New York licensed psychologists CE.

• Understand how a “weight-loss-first” approach impacts health and impedes mental well-being.
• Describe the scientific evidence of the genetic and physiological factors that govern body weight.
• Identify the best evidence-based treatments for treating patients with weight-related issues.

Barbara Mantel