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):
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Ask for permission to discuss weight and explore readiness
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Assess obesity-related risks and “root causes” of obesity
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Advise on health risks and treatment options
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Agree on health outcomes and behavioural goals
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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).