Description

Prompt

Research, develop and draft for Obesity the Physical Assessment / Documentation, Pathophysiology, and Pharmacology portions for Obesity. Reflect on the information learned in MSN Essentials and health promotion activity.

Solution

Obesity Management: Physical Assessment, Pathophysiology, and Pharmacology for MSN Students and Nurse Practitioners

Obesity rates have grown significantly in recent decades to become a national public health threat. As the prevalence of the condition increases, its associated medical costs have risen, with the medical cost of obesity estimated to be $173 billion (Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (CDC), 2025).

Only two in five young adults meet the weight requirements for military service, making obesity a national security concern. Furthermore, obesity increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart diseases, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol levels. These conditions are among the leading causes of premature and preventable deaths. Obesity is also associated with a decrease in life expectancy (CDC, 2025). Tackling obesity should be a top public health priority because of the far-reaching health and economic consequences.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)-prepared nurses can significantly influence the implementation of population-based health policies on obesity (American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 2021). Several public health initiatives aiming to lower obesity rates across the United States at local, state, and national levels in varied settings and targeting individuals throughout their lifespan (Cirignano, 2023). As rising obesity rates increase the cost burden on the economy, public health initiatives will be integral in protecting Americans at different life stages. However, it would be essential to develop a better understanding of the pandemic to achieve more effective management.

Physical Assessment

There is no universally accepted definition of obesity based solely on excess body fat that can accurately predict health risks. Instead, health professionals typically assess obesity indirectly using a weight-for-height index known as the body mass index (BMI). The index reliably measures overweight and obesity. It measures overweight and obesity by dividing an individual’s weight by the square of their height. Clinicians also consider the existence of comorbid conditions, and classifications set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

If the BMI is less than 18.5, clinicians classify a patient as underweight. If the BMI is 18.5 ≤ BMI < 25 kg/m², an individual fall in the normal weight category. Overweight BMI applies to 25≤BMI<30 kg/m² and obesity is defined as BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² (CDC, 2025)….

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