How can I effectively assess and monitor the progress of patients enrolled in a weight management program?

Effective assessment and monitoring of patients in a weight management program involves several key steps:

• Initial assessment: Measure and classify overweight or obesity using BMI and waist-to-height ratio, especially in children and young people, to determine health risk levels and guide intervention intensity. For adults, assess severity of overweight or obesity and central adiposity to understand risk of comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease ¹.
• Identify comorbidities: Screen for and manage comorbid conditions early, particularly in children with BMI at or above the 98th centile, and adults with increased health risks ¹.
• Set personalised goals: Discuss and agree realistic, individualised health and lifestyle goals with the patient, including sustainable dietary and physical activity changes ¹.
• Use behavioural interventions: Tailor interventions to individual needs, addressing barriers to change, and encourage gradual weight loss of 0.5 to 1 kg per week ².
• Regular monitoring: Track weight, BMI, waist-to-height ratio, and progress towards agreed goals at regular intervals to assess effectiveness and adjust the program as needed ¹.
• Address wider factors: Consider social context, mental health, stigma, and provide referrals to relevant support services as appropriate ¹.
• Promote physical activity and healthy diet: Encourage routine physical activity and healthy eating habits consistent with national guidelines, and minimise sedentary behaviour ².

These steps ensure a comprehensive, patient-centred approach to assessing and monitoring progress in weight management programs.