Obesity is now treated in a similar way to depression or addiction. Jacobs works with the UF Weight Management Program, where specialists assess patients individually, consider the reasons for their obesity, and customize weight-management treatment plans.
Behavioral change is the first way to modify habits and improve health.
Medications, too, are options within the program. When all else fails, surgery is considered, but only when its risk is less than the risk of remaining at a dangerous weight. Jacobs says that a 10-percent weight loss is a significant benefit in terms of a person's health and may decrease or eliminate the need for medicines to treat other health problems. Parts of the program may be covered by insurance. Staff will work with patients and insurance companies for available coverage.