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Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
Obesity and weight control practices in 2000 among veterans using VA facilities
Anthea Wang1, Linda S Kinsinger, Leila C Kahwati
1Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
Obesity Research
|September 1, 2005
Summary
Overweight and obesity are common among veterans using Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities. While many try to lose weight, effective practices and professional advice are often lacking, indicating a need for improved VA weight management interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Veterans Health
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Overweight and obesity present significant public health challenges, particularly within veteran populations utilizing Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities.
- Understanding the prevalence and weight control behaviors of this demographic is crucial for developing targeted health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of overweight and obesity among veterans receiving care at VA facilities.
- To examine the weight control practices, including dietary habits, physical activity levels, and professional guidance, employed by these veterans.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from the 2000 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a large-scale telephone survey encompassing 184,450 adults.
- Outcome measures included Body Mass Index (BMI), self-reported weight management strategies, and receipt of professional weight control advice, comparing VA users with non-VA users.
Main Results:
- Veterans using VA facilities showed high rates of overweight (44%) and obesity (25%).
- Obese VA users were more likely than non-VA users to attempt weight loss, modify diet (reducing calories and fat), and receive professional advice.
- However, a significant proportion of obese VA users exhibited insufficient dietary changes or physical activity, and only 51% received professional weight loss advice.
Conclusions:
- The high prevalence of overweight and obesity among VA users necessitates tailored weight management programs within VA facilities.
- Interventions should focus on promoting evidence-based weight control practices, including effective dietary modifications and sustained physical activity, alongside increased professional guidance.
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