Having been an overweight child, Internal Medicine Physician Doug Kabbes, MD, understands how difficult it can be to lose and maintain a healthy weight. He achieved his goals through diet and exercise, but he knows that some people need additional support.
“Every day as a physician, I see people with chronic health conditions that could be improved with weight loss. But losing weight is easier said than done,” Dr. Kabbes admits.
Sarah Bush Lincoln’s Weight Management Program is expanding to the SBL Bonutti Clinic in Effingham. Dr. Kabbes is enthusiastic about helping people achieve their weight goals. He believes this program will be instrumental for many reasons.
“Some 73 percent of our population is overweight or obese, and the number climbs every year.
Being overweight contributes to the development of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, hypertension, depression, liver disease and cancer, much of which can be either cured or alleviated with weight loss,” he said.
New medications on the market can be life-changing for many. Injectable medications, originally developed for diabetes, have been found to be safe and effective weight management tools. Medication options currently include Saxenda and Wegovy. While a similar medication, Mounjaro, is expected to receive approval for weight loss in the next few months.
Dr. Kabbes is completing course work to become board-certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine, one that certifies physicians who want to bridge the gap between obesity and chronic disease. As part of his efforts, Dr. Kabbes works in conjunction with the SBL Weight Management Program. It aims to incorporate a focused exercise and nutrition program, prescription medication that encourages weight loss, and bariatric surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) to promote weight loss by restricting food intake and disrupting the digestive process. The comprehensive weight-loss program includes ongoing support to help permanently keep the weight off.
Dr. Kabbes explained his history. “When I was young, I was an overweight kid. I decided to make changes by exercising, getting involved in sports and eating better, which was transformational, but I realize the difficulties others may have, especially in achieving long-term results. Some have dieted their entire lives, and weight continues to be a struggle for them. I hope to offer people help and most importantly, hope, through our Weight Management Program,” Dr. Kabbes said.
The Effingham Weight Management program is offered in the Effingham Walk-In Clinic at the SBL Bonutti Clinic, Entrance B. For more information, call 217 342-5225.