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SPECIAL EDITION
Obesity Medicine e-Weekly
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BREAKING NEWS
AMA House of Delegates adopts resolution to recognize obesity as a disease, following testimony from ASBP AMA Delegate Dr. Ethan Lazarus
This decision followed testimonies from Dr. Ethan Lazarus (Colorado), who is representing the Society at this week's AMA 2013 Annual Meeting in Chicago.
On Sunday, Dr. Lazarus testified before a reference committee, stating among other arguments on behalf of the Society, "There is in fact good evidence that recognizing obesity as a disease can improve health outcomes. One prime example is the Diabetes Prevention Program, in which 5-7 percent weight loss results in risk reduction for development of diabetes by 58 percent. This is in line with the AMA strategic plan on improving health outcomes. Without recognition and treatment, these improvements would not be possible."
It is important to note that although AMA decisions do not have recognized legal implications, these policy decisions are often referenced by federal and state legislators and other decision makers when setting medical policy and health regulations.
Please click here for more information about the AMA 2013 Annual Meeting.
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