Updated obesity guideline supports personalized care and continued use of effective weight-loss medications

In 2025, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense (VA/DoD) revised their obesity management guideline to incorporate recent advancements in obesity assessment and treatment methods. This update emphasizes a holistic approach to evaluating health risks, beyond solely relying on body mass index (BMI). The guideline advocates for lifestyle modifications as the primary form of treatment and incorporates medications, such as GLP-1 therapies, as well as endoscopic and surgical interventions when deemed appropriate.

A condensed version of the guideline, which focuses on crucial updates for primary care physicians, was recently published in Annals of Internal Medicine. The VA/DoD Evidence-Based Practice Work Group brought together a diverse group of clinical experts who reviewed research published between April 1, 2019, and January 6, 2025. They assessed the advantages, drawbacks, patient preferences, and practical aspects of managing and treating obesity.

The guideline suggests routine obesity screening utilizing BMI, waist circumference, and individual clinical factors. It reinforces comprehensive lifestyle interventions as the core of care while promoting personalized, timely use of weight-loss medications, endoscopic procedures, or surgical options when necessary. The authors conclude that obesity should be managed as a chronic condition necessitating ongoing, adaptable care pathways to enhance treatment access and promote long-term health benefits.