5As of Obesity Management for Adults
This tool kit provides health practitioners with five steps to better manage their patients’ weight and related health issues:
- ASK for permission to discuss weight and explore readiness
- ASSESS obesity related risks and ‘root causes’ of obesity
- ADVISE on health risks and treatment options
- AGREE on health outcomes and behavioural goals
- ASSIST in accessing appropriate resources and providers
“Weight is a sensitive issue, and so conversations about weight must be sensitive and non-judgemental,” explains Dr. Arya M. Sharma, past scientific director for Obesity Canada. “The 5As tool is based on our understanding that obesity must be managed as a chronic condition, much like diabetes or hypertension, and that treatment goals as well as end results will be different for each patient. But, it all starts with a respectful conversation.”