Defining Diabesity

New term helps  healthcare  professionals  describe an  epidemic

A relatively new term being used by medical professionals underscores the connection between diabetes and obesity, two problems of epidemic  proportion in the United States. The term is “diabesity,” and it is continually increasing in popularity.

“I think what the medical community is trying to communicate is that obesity is not just obesity,” says Amir Moazzez, MD, Medical Director for the Inova Weight Loss Surgery Program. “It’s a common denominator for many conditions, including diabetes, one of the most costly and fastest-growing problems in the U.S.”

Dr. Moazzez thinks “diabesity” helps reinforce the connection between the two complementary epidemics. “These two conditions alone, they’re probably the two most costly [to the healthcare system]. It’s a term that needs to be addressed by physicians in their offices. It’s a real phenomenon,” he says.

Nipping this epidemic in the bud will be difficult, but it starts with individuals  and their primary care providers, says Dr. Moazzez.  “I would hope  more physicians become involved  with suggesting to patients in a more  serious manner to lose their weight and get healthier. Just asking your patient to  lose weight, that’s not working,” he says.

For many overweight or obese people, conservative measures like eating better and living a healthier lifestyle will help them avoid diabetes. Unfortunately, for morbidly obese people, those measures often will not work. For people in that situation, Dr. Moazzez recommends  visiting comprehensive weight loss centers like Inova Fair Oaks Hospital’s Weight Loss Services.

Fight the Fat

To learn more about Inova Fair Oaks Hospital’s Weight Loss Services,  call 703.348.4716 or  visit www.inovaweightloss.org