Gaps in Obesity Care: A Call for Better Education

Original Article: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/knowledge-gaps-about-obesity-medicine-seen-primary-care-2024a1000k9c

Limited Knowledge Among Providers

A study at a Boston safety-net hospital revealed significant knowledge gaps in obesity care among primary care providers. Out of 96 surveyed, many lacked confidence in prescribing anti-obesity medications (AOMs), especially non-GLP-1 options. Only 25% correctly identified AOM criteria, and low referral rates for bariatric surgery were reported. Providers commonly associated obesity with diseases like type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea but missed other related conditions, like cancer or kidney disease.

Barriers to Effective Treatment

Time constraints, lack of training, and limited resources were the most cited challenges in managing obesity. While most providers referred patients to nutrition services, fewer recommended specialized obesity care or surgery. Comfort in prescribing medications depended on factors like safety knowledge and insurance coverage. Despite training improvements, obesity treatment remains inconsistent and not widely practiced.

Steps Toward Improvement

This research suggests that there is a need for better education and addressing stigma early in medical training. The rise of GLP-1 medications may bring more attention to obesity treatment, encouraging a multidisciplinary approach and better integration into medical and nursing school curricula.