Role of Pharmacists in Obesity Management

Abstract

Obesity is defined as an abnormal accumulation of fat (BMI >30kg/m2). It may result in health impairment, and is rising fiercely in developing countries. Chronic conditions, like obesity, can be best managed by a synchronized team of healthcare professionals. Interventions by community pharmacists can be effective in weight management but factors like insufficient access to patient information, time restriction and a poor pharmacist-physician relationship are hindering the provision of this service. It is also believed that pharmacists don't have adequate training for consultation and a have a product-focused approach to gain finances. However, pharmacists should be encouraged to reduce obesity prevalence, since obese patients tend to have numerous co-morbidities thus, interact with community pharmacists for OTC and prescription drugs. Also, Pharmacists can assess diseases related to obesity, calculate BMI, perform body fat analysis, reinforce lifestyle modifications, educate patients and start treatment in collaboration with physicians.