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Iredell Primary Care for Women physician Dr. Eva Imperial has been certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) as an ABOM diplomate. ABOM diplomates are physicians who undergo rigorous training in obesity medicine and an extensive examination process to achieve this designation.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 40 percent of U.S. adults cope with obesity, which is associated with a higher risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke and other musculoskeletal and vascular problems. Obesity has been officially recognized as a disease by the American Medical Association since 2013.

Physicians often have little or no training in weight management and nutrition and are unfamiliar with appropriate management and treatment guidelines.

“In addition to being a fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, I obtained my Obesity Board Certification to be up to date on the latest obesity research and treatments,” Imperial said. “Obesity is linked to several chronic illnesses, including arthritis, diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. My goal is always to help my patient live her healthiest life, whether it’s obesity prevention and management or another area of her health.”

The American Board of Obesity Medicine serves the public and the field of obesity medicine by maintaining standards for assessment and credentialing physicians. Certification as an ABOM diplomate signifies specialized knowledge in the practice of obesity medicine and distinguishes a physician as having achieved competency in obesity care. ABOM collaborates with the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) to administer the annual credentialing exam.

Currently, there are more than 3,375 ABOM diplomates throughout the U.S. and Canada.

“The growth of obesity medicine board certification mirrors the rise in interest among physicians seeking a more evidence-based approach to treating patients coping with obesity,” said Dana Brittan, ABOM executive director.

“The certification process provides physicians with tools, resources and knowledge to enhance their skills and help their community address the obesity epidemic, one patient at a time,” said Dr. Rekha Kumar, medical director for ABOM.

Iredell Primary Care for Women is part of the Iredell Physician Network. The office is located at 114 Gateway Blvd., Suite B in Mooresville, NC. For more information about the practice, visit www.IredellPrimaryCare.com.