People with obesity is on the rise and this has become a major health concern.
Being obese can lead to increased risk of various health problems, such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia, fatty liver, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obstructive sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis (knee/back) and certain cancers etc. Chronic diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, T2DM are important risk factors for cardiovascular disease (coronary heart disease (heart attack, angina), heart failure, stroke etc.
The good news is that obesity can be prevented and sustained weight loss can be achieved through lifestyle intervention which focuses on strategies for long term weight management.
For selected individuals, the use of weight loss medications and/or weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery)* in conjunction with lifestyle interventions, may be appropriate to achieve sustainable clinical and health benefits from weight loss.
*You will be referred to a bariatric surgery clinic if you decide to pursue weight loss surgery as part of your weight management plan
Do you have problems with overweight or obesity?
Obesity occurs when your body has accumulated excess body fat to the extent that your health is adversely affected. One of the widely accepted methods of categorising your weight is by calculating your Body Mass Index (BMI) with the formula below:
| Category | BMI (kg/m2) | Health risks |
|---|---|---|
| < 18.5 | Underweight | Risk of nutritional deficiency, osteoporosis |
| 18.5 - 22.9 | Normal | Low |
| 23.0 - 27.4 | Overweight | Moderate |
| 27.5 and above | Obese | High |
The above BMI ranges does not apply to people below 18 years of age, pregnant individuals, athletes and those who have a muscular build
Modest weight loss of 5 to 10% is associated with improved heath, improvement of blood pressure, blood cholesterol, blood sugar level and boost your energy levels. It decreases risk of developing chronic diseases such as hypertension, T2DM, dyslipidaemias etc.
The benefit of weight loss is progressive, with greater weight loss is associated with greater health benefits.
| Diagnosis | Weight loss targets, % | Expected outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Pre diabetes | 10 |
|
| T2DM | 5 - 15 |
|
| Dyslipidaemia | 5 - 15 |
|
| Hypertension | 5 - 15 |
|
| GERD | ≥ 10 |
|
| Fatty liver disease | 10 - 40 |
|
| Osteoarthritis | 5 - 10 or more |
|
| Sleep apnoea | 7 - 11 |
|
| PCOS | 5 - 15 |
|
Remarks: GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease; HDL, high density lipoprotein; LDL, low density lipoprotein; NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
(Reference: Garvey et al. Endocr Pract.2016 Jul; 22(7):842-84)
Research indicates that adopting a healthy lifestyle to achieve meaningful weight loss significantly reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases.
The Weight Management Programme is a 16-week lifestyle weight loss initiative that includes regular (weekly or biweekly) assessments by medical and/or allied health professionals (dietitian, exercise specialist, and occupational therapist). The team provides evidence-based, individualized, structured weight management techniques through coaching, counselling, practice, and feedback to help you achieve long-term weight loss and maintain optimal health.
Prior to your first consultation, you will undergo a set of investigative tests to assist in the initial clinical evaluation of your health status.
Eligibility Criteria for Weight Management Programme
You may be eligible for the Weight Management Programme if you meet the following criteria:
*Sulphonylureas are a class of oral medications used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. They work by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin, which helps lower blood glucose levels. Commonly used Sulphonylureas are Gliclazide, Glipizide, Glyburide (also known as glibenclamide), Glimepiride
"To live well, is to eat well."
How many times have you been on a diet? Are you tired of a yo-yo cycle? Break that chain now by embarking on a sustainable weight loss programme. We will review your needs and personalise a meal plan for you. Let us embark on this together.
"Moving a little every day is better than not moving at all."
An exercise regime that is fun and achievable will motivate you to keep going. Let us measure your fitness level, lifestyle habits and activity preferences to customise an exercise regime you can do anytime, anywhere!
"A 'can do' attitude helps you achieve your goals sooner."
We are more likely to succeed when we view life's changes positively. Can you identify the “obstacle” in your weight loss journey? Share it with us. We will work with you to manage challenges, which include current eating habits and ways to raise your activity levels.
"Your well-being is our responsibility."
We will do a detailed clinical assessment of your weight and health status. We will work with you to provide advice and support to ensure a safe and effective weight loss journey for you. Let's us strive to help you lose 5 - 10 % or more of your entry weight to improve health and reduce your risk for obesity associated health problems.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is meant for educational purposes and should not be used as substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please seek your doctor's advice before starting any treatment or if you have any questions related to your health, physical fitness or medical condition.
Schedule an appointment with our Weight Management Multi-disciplinary Care team.
| Appointment Line | |
| Online Request | |
The clinical team will review your request/referral within 2 to 3 weeks and contact you for an appointment.
