UC Davis Health opens obesity clinic

The Division of Endocrinology at UC Davis Health has opened a new clinic to provide specialized care for patients struggling to maintain a healthy weight.

The new Obesity Clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, including nutrition counseling, physical therapy, sleep medicine, behavioral counseling and medication management. This holistic model is designed to meet patients where they are and help them achieve sustainable health goals.

“As rates of obesity continue to rise, it’s critical that we offer patients a comprehensive, multifaceted approach to care,” said Joaquin Lado, chief of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism. “At UC Davis Health, we are committed to delivering personalized support tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Our goal goes beyond weight management, we strive to foster a culture of well-being that empowers sustainable, long-term lifestyle changes.”

Obesity: A growing public health crisis

The clinic opens at a time when nearly one in three adults in California are obese — a sharp increase from 19.3% in 2001 to 29.2% in 2023, according to the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). In adults, obesity is typically defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Today, that amounts to about 8.5 million adults with obesity and another 9.5 million who are overweight.

The economic impact of obesity is substantial. Obesity-related health care costs in the U.S. are estimated at $173 billion annually. On average, individuals with obesity incur $1,861 more in medical expenses each year compared to those with a healthy weight.

Beyond financial costs, obesity significantly increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, kidney disease and certain cancers. 

“With nearly one in three adults in California living with obesity, we need to provide care that goes beyond diet and exercise,” said Miranda Stiewig-Rapp, assistant professor of endocrinology and clinic director. “Our clinic offers a comprehensive approach that addresses physical, emotional and medical barriers to weight management, helping patients improve their health and quality of life.”

“Our clinic offers a comprehensive approach that addresses physical, emotional and medical barriers to weight management, helping patients improve their health and quality of life.”—Miranda Stiewig-Rapp

A holistic treatment approach

Obesity is a complex condition influenced by genetic, hormonal and environmental factors. The clinic’s multidisciplinary model ensures care is personalized to each patient’s needs.

Among the treatments offered at that the clinic are GLP-1 agonists, which are transforming the landscape of weight management by significantly enhancing the results individuals can achieve when combined with lifestyle interventions. Studies have shown GLP-1 agonists — have demonstrated weight loss outcomes of approximately 15-20% in some cases. 

“What’s particularly exciting is that, when these medications are paired with lifestyle therapy, we’re not only helping patients reach their weight loss goals but also supporting long-term maintenance through continued treatment,” Stiewig-Rapp explained. “Over time, these medications may help patients avoid bariatric surgical procedures, along with the associated risks such as micronutrient deficiencies.”

Additional treatment will include addressing mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, as these conditions can limit engagement in physical activity. Others may require physical therapy to overcome injuries or mobility issues by learning safe, pain-free exercises that encourage movement without discomfort.

Nutrition education is another cornerstone of care. Through counseling, patients gain a clear understanding of macronutrients, micronutrients and strategies for achieving a healthy caloric balance.

The clinic also prioritizes management of obesity-related conditions such as sleep apnea, connecting patients with sleep medicine specialists to improve sleep quality, a critical factor in weight loss success.

“Part of our role as clinicians is to help patients understand the multiple factors at play and support them as they navigate these challenges,” added Stiewig-Rapp. “It is important that we engage patients in their own care, empowering them to take an active role in their treatment and helping them feel in control of their health journey.”

Who can be referred to the clinic?

UC Davis Health patients may be referred to the clinic by their primary care provider? if they are 18 or older and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 30 or higher accompanied by one or more of the following health conditions:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD)
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Cardiovascular disease or history of a cardiovascular event 
• Hypertension
• Metabolic syndrome
• Dyslipidemia