ROLE OF COMMUNITY PHARMACIST AND NUTRITIONISTS IN OBESITY MANAGEMENT: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

The idea of engaging community pharmacists and nutritionists in weight management services has been well accepted by the community, as both can help to improve behavior and knowledge regarding obesity among obese patients. The aim of this study is to summarize research findings from developed and developing countries as well as from Pakistan regarding role of community pharmacists and nutritionists in obesity management. A total of 38 studies were reviewed regarding trends in obesity management. The review concluded that the role of community pharmacists and nutritionists in obesity management is not well acknowledged in most of the developing countries including Pakistan. Limited data are available on a number of nutritionists and type of services provided by them for weight management in these countries. There is urgent need to identify the barriers and gaps to further enhance the effectiveness of obesity management. Beside this intervention studies involving multi-disciplinary health- care professionals must be designed to control current obesity crisis worldwide.Keywords: Community pharmacists, Counseling, Nutritionists, Obesity, Weight management program.