In 1985, the National Institute of Health decided that obesity was indeed a disease. They defined obesity as being 20% above one's ideal body weight.  In 1997, an estimated 97 million adults in the United States were either overweight or obese, a condition that substantially raises their risk of morbidity and morality from numerous illnesses.

At Sussex Family Practice, we approach obesity as a disease.  We do not approach the proces of weight loss and weight maintenance from just one perspective. Our programs are designed to assist the patient in losing and maintaining weight, keeping in mind that the bulk of the success of a program lies in the hands of the patients.  The programs focus not only on calorie control and exercise but also on behavioral and lifestyle factors that contribute to the disease of obesity.

Obesity is a serious problem that needs to be coordinated by medical professionals. In 1993, the Journal of the American Medical Association estimated that approximately 300,000 deaths per year are related to obesity. The physicians at Sussex Family Practice have been helping people lose weight for 18 years. We are committed to the treatment of this problem in an ethically and medically sound environment.

Deciding to go on a diet to lose and then maintain weight is a big step. We congratulate you on your effort. We look forward to being able to assist you in your accomplishments.