Lifestyle Medicine With Obesity Patient Care: A 33 Years Old Woman With Doctor Career

Abstract

This case study presented a 33-year-old single female patient who had undergone a physical health check-up. The patient perceives her physical health as normal but has recently experienced   sadness, low energy and stress due to sudden changes in her relationships, abrupt relocation of         residence and work, and the initiation of a new business without prior management experience. She was also anxious about studying in the extra program and preparing for certification exam. She had           occasionally unhealthy eating habits and she rarely exercises. Physical examination and laboratory      results revealed first-degree obesity and hypercholesterolemia. An assessment identified an adjustment disorder. The evaluation of readiness for lifestyle change indicated that the patient was in the          precontemplation stage that means she has not yet recognized the importance of making meaningful health behavior changes and  unaware that their current condition constitutes a problem. The short-term therapeutic goal for this patient was to modify health-related behaviors based on the SMART goal framework (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound), which emphasizes clearly        defined, focused, measurable, attainable, and relevant objectives within a specified timeframe. The      target period was set at 1–3 months, with a primary focus on reducing body mass index (BMI) and       lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) levels. The long-term goals were to promote           sustained healthy eating behaviors, regular physical activity, and weight management in order to         improve overall quality of life. The treatment plan emphasized lifestyle modification, including:              1) strengthening psychological resilience 2) adopting a healthier dietary pattern and 3) increasing          exercise and daily physical activity. Motivational interviewing techniques were employed to establish a therapeutic alliance, provide brief counseling, and assist the patient in defining individualized health goals through open-ended questions. The intervention focused on nutrition, physical activity, and the management of stress and emotional well-being. Over a 17-month follow-up period, the patient’s BMI decreased from 29.69 to 25.50 kg/m², and the LDL level decreased from 151 to 119 mg/dL.