Obesity Is Not One Disease — It’s the Root of Many
Obesity is recognized by the American Medical Association as a chronic disease. But its impact extends far beyond the number on the scale. Excess weight drives inflammation, disrupts hormonal balance, and accelerates conditions that reduce both the length and quality of your life. At VPMC, we don’t just treat the weight. We treat the cascade of conditions it causes — because we are a full primary care practice with obesity medicine expertise.
Type 2 Diabetes & Prediabetes
Obesity is the single strongest modifiable risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide were originally developed as diabetes treatments before their weight loss benefits were recognized. At VPMC, Dr. Palagiri manages both conditions simultaneously: as your weight decreases, your diabetes medications are adjusted in real time. Many patients reduce or eliminate diabetes medications entirely after sustained weight loss.
Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea affects an estimated 60–70% of people with obesity. Weight loss of 10–15% has been shown to significantly reduce severity, and some patients are able to reduce or discontinue CPAP therapy. At VPMC, we screen weight loss patients for sleep apnea and coordinate sleep studies when indicated.
Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/NASH)
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the most common liver condition in the world, affecting up to 80% of obese individuals. There is no FDA-approved medication specifically for NAFLD — weight loss is the primary treatment. A 5–10% reduction in body weight significantly reduces liver fat and inflammation.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age and is strongly linked to insulin resistance and obesity. Weight loss of even 5–7% can restore ovulatory cycles, improve fertility, reduce androgen levels, and improve insulin sensitivity.
Cardiovascular Disease
Obesity increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease through elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia, chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance. At VPMC, weight loss is managed alongside cardiovascular risk reduction.
Joint Pain & Osteoarthritis
Every pound of body weight places approximately 4 pounds of mechanical stress on the knee joints. Weight loss reduces joint stress, decreases inflammation, and can delay or prevent joint replacement. We combine medical weight loss with Emsculpt NEO to strengthen supporting muscles around affected joints.
Mental Health: Depression & Anxiety
The relationship between obesity and mental health is bidirectional. At VPMC, we screen for and address mental health conditions as part of the weight management plan. Contrave, one of our prescribed medications, has the added benefit of addressing mood through its bupropion component.
GERD, Urinary Incontinence & More
Excess abdominal fat worsens GERD and increases pressure on the pelvic floor. VPMC offers a unique combination: medical weight loss to reduce abdominal pressure PLUS Emsella pelvic floor strengthening. This dual approach produces results that neither treatment alone can match.
