Weight management: A concept analysis.

Aim: There is a need to develop sound healthcare practices where patients and providers are able to succeed in meeting weight management goals. The aim of this analysis is to develop a better understanding the concept of weight management.

Background: Obesity is a rapidly growing healthcare issue, reaching epidemic levels around the world. According to the World Health Organization, the current incident rate of obesity makes it the leading risk for death across the globe.

Design: Walker and Avant's model for concept analysis.

Data Source: A literature search was accomplished using Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, Health Source: Nursing Academic Edition, Medline, and ProQuest Health and Medical Complete.

Review Methods: Keywords included weight management, weight control, weight loss, obesity, weight, and management.

Results: Weight management is complex concept. Strategies to develop successful weight management programs need to be multifaceted to have impact on this healthcare crisis.

Conclusion: The critical attributes for weight management are dietary measures, physical activity, behavior modification, motivation, education, and lifelong changes. Unsuccessful weight management results in metabolic disorders and increased risk of mortality. Successful weight management practices include the prevention of weight gain, weight loss, and maintenance of ideal body weight.