Research on the prevention and treatment of obesity as a disease has been exponentially expanding over the last several decades, with researchers discovering numerous etiologies in the disease progression. This session will provide a brief foundation of the physiological mechanisms contributing to overweight and obesity before shifting to discussion of treatment options, including use of anti-obesity medications, that may enhance the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions. Speakers will emphasize the importance of professional advocacy as they highlight the RDN and NDTR roles in treating the whole person with a patient-directed focus as well as strategies to provide equitable and unbiased care. The panel of obesity medicine experts will inform participants of the numerous internal and exterior barriers to obesity treatment and several actionable steps the RDN and NDTR can take to lower the barriers to obesity treatment.

Planned with the Academy's Committee for Lifelong Learning

CPE Level: Level 2 (intermediate knowledge/experience)
CPEU: 1.5

Performance Indicators

• 8.1.2. Integrates knowledge of biological, physical, and social sciences with knowledge of food and nutrition to make decisions related to nutrition care.
• 14.2.7 Negotiates payment and reimbursement for clients/patients in order to promote access to care.
• 3.3.3. Advocates for access to health and nutrition services.

Learning Objectives

• Explain the numerous barriers to obesity prevention and treatment
• Describe approaches to treatment that break down barriers to obesity care
• Identify actionable steps the RDN and NDTR can take to improve access to obesity treatment

Moderator

• Julie Schwartz, MS, RDN, CSOWM, LD, ACSM-EP, NBC-HWC

Speakers

• Katherine H. Saunders, MD
• Lillian Craggs-Dino, DHA, RDN
• Nina Crowley, PhD, RDN, LD