interview

Its important to conduct a face-to-face interview discussing all the ways your weight has affect your life. If you’re dealing with obesity, you might have questioned why you’ve accumulated extra weight. It’s also possible that you’ve encountered various unsolicited opinions on the matter. Some may have suggested that your weight gain is due to overeating or insufficient physical activity. Others might have attributed it to a supposed lack of willpower or a failure to put in enough effort to lose weight.

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While food, physical activity, and personal effort do contribute to obesity, the issue is far more complex than these factors alone. Modern research reveals that obesity is a multifaceted condition that extends beyond mere calorie consumption and willpower. It should not be viewed as a character flaw but rather as a chronic disease.

The causes of obesity are varied and include genetic factors as well as environmental influences. Each person's body responds differently, and individual susceptibility to obesity can vary significantly.

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Circumstances 

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There are many factors that may increase your risk for obesity, such as your genes, environment and even your sleep habits. Your personal circumstances can influence your likelihood of developing obesity. Factors such as where you are born, live, learn, and work all play a role in shaping your health, well-being, and overall quality of life. These factors are known as social determinants of health (SDOH).

The federal government categorizes SDOH into five key areas:

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1. Do you have a stable, well-paying job? Can you afford essential items and nutritious food to maintain your health?

2. Are there high-quality educational opportunities available in your area? Can you or your children pursue higher education?

3. Do you have health insurance? Are you receiving the necessary health care services?

4. Do you live in a safe area with access to clean drinking water and nutritious food? Are there amenities like parks and sidewalks for physical activity?

5. Do you experience racism or discrimination? Do you have a support network during difficult times?

In many lower socioeconomic communities, these SDOH can increase the risk of obesity and other health issues. For instance, living in poverty can make it difficult to access healthy food, lacking adequate health insurance can prevent you from getting necessary care, and limited access to recreational spaces can hinder physical activity.

If your circumstances are impacting your health, it’s important to discuss these issues with your health care provider. This will enable them to offer support and resources to help improve your overall health.

Part of the interview will include questions about how obesity affects your relationships, your lifestyle, your mental and physical capabilities and more. Bring questions with you to ask your provider and assist in the shared decision making process.

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