MDNews - Atlanta

++++++++++++++++++ +++ + +++ DATA VAulT+ ++++++++++++++++++ Weight, Weight … don't tell Me gettINg patIeNtS oN the path to heaLthy bMIs INvoLveS MaSterINg the art of perceptIoN. D reporTing in a 2003 issue of the journal Obesity Research, researchers from University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University identify terminology that may tip the scales when discussing weight with overweight and obese espiTe The upTick in obesity rates among Americans, most fail to buckle down on weight management without the involvement of a physician. Especially with the classification of obesity as a disease, now is the time to capitalize on your 15 minutes with patients in the exam room. patients. most preferred terms LeAst preferred terms + Weight + Fatness + Excess weight + Excess fat + BMI + Obesity What patients Want 1. diet advice (28 percent) 2. Weight loss goal direction (27 percent) 3. exercise guidance (26 percent) Source: The Journal of Family Practice fat = phat? findings froM a recenT Johns Hopkins study of physician perception among overweight or obese patients offer up a mixed bag. Despite feeling judged by heavier primary care physicians (PCPs) more so than PCPs with normal BMIs, predicted probabilities indicate overweight or obese study participants place greater trust in physicians with higher BMIs. Specifically, of the 600 patients studied: + 76 perCent were likely to place a "good deal" of trust in the weight-management advice of a physician with a normal BMI, versus 85 percent who trust that of overweight or obese physicians. + 77 perCent were likely to amply trust the dietary advice of a physician with a normal BMI, versus 87 percent who trust that of overweight physicians. + 79 perCent were likely to trust exercise advice from physicians with normal BMIs, versus 86 percent who trust that of overweight physicians. The takeaway? If you're not going beyond diagnosing obesity to prescribing lifestyle modifications, you may be missing an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue. Your patients might be more apt to listen than you think. ■ A dv e r t i s e r s ' i n d e x Regions........................................Back Cover VEINatlanta .................. Inside Front Cover MdneWs.coM ■ MD News Atlanta | 15

• Cover