Obesity as a Chronic Disease: Epidemiology and Pathophysiologic Insights

This activity aligns with the American Board of Obesity Medicine’s (ABOM) content blueprint for the Obesity Medicine board examination. Specifically, this course covers the material in the “B” duties of a physician (B: Treating Patients With Obesity) and the necessary task 1 in the outline (ie, B: 1 in the exam blueprint): Discuss Obesity as a Complex Chronic Disease. Obesity represents a major global health concern, with prevalence exceeding 40% among adults in the United States and rising across all age groups. This multifactorial condition is influenced by genetic, metabolic, behavioral, and environmental factors that disrupt normal energy balance. Despite conventional lifestyle interventions, biological mechanisms such as adaptive thermogenesis, set-point theory, and changes in the gut microbiome contribute to the persistence of weight gain. Epigenetic influences further demonstrate how early-life exposures alter long-term metabolic risk. Epidemiologic data highlight disparities in obesity prevalence by sex, race, socioeconomic status, and geographic region, reinforcing the importance of interventions that address both biological and social determinants of health. Beyond individual morbidity, obesity increases the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and certain cancers, establishing it as a leading public health challenge. This activity for healthcare professionals enhances clinician competence in assessing, diagnosing, and managing obesity using an evidence-based, systems-based framework. Participants gain skills in interpreting epidemiologic data, identifying risk factors, and applying biologic principles to practice. This activity aligns with the American Board of Obesity Medicine’s content blueprint for the Obesity Medicine board exam. Specifically, this course covers the material in the “B” duties of a clinician (B: Treating Patients with Obesity) and the necessary task 1 in the outline (ie, B:1 in the exam blueprint)…

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.