In their CMAJ article “Managing obesity in adults in primary care,”1 Plourde and Prud’homme propose using the 5A model for the management of obesity. Recently, the Canadian Obesity Network launched a set of tools based on the 5A model, which specifically addresses the needs of practitioners in primary care.2
The tools are based on extensive research involving primary care practitioners, obesity experts and patients, and consist of the following steps (slightly different in some aspects from the 5A model presented by Plourde and Prud’homme):
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 and arrange follow-up.
The development of these resources was funded through the Canadian Public Health Agency and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Toolkits can be obtained through the Canadian Obesity Network (www.obesitynetwork.ca).
References
- 1.Plourde G, Prud’homme D. Managing obesity in adults in primary care. CMAJ 2012;184:1039–44 [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 2.New toolkit provides road map for obesity management. Edmonton (AB): Canadian Obesity Network; 2012. Available: www.obesitynetwork.ca/page.aspx?page=2895&app=182&cat1=457&tp=12&lk=no&menu=37 (accessed 2012 June 18). [Google Scholar]