Obesity is considered a disease because it is a complex, chronic medical condition involving excessive body fat that can affect multiple systems throughout the body. It is associated with an increased risk of health concerns such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, joint problems, and certain cancers. Obesity is not simply caused by eating too much or exercising too little.

Genetics, metabolism, hormones, sleep, stress, medications, medical conditions, eating patterns, physical activity, and environmental factors can all influence body weight. Two people with similar diets and activity levels may experience different weight outcomes because their bodies regulate appetite, energy use, and fat storage differently. Although healthy nutrition and regular movement remain important, some individuals may still struggle to achieve meaningful weight loss without medical support. At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC, we evaluate each patient’s health history and contributing factors to develop a personalized obesity medicine plan.

Obesity is a complex chronic condition that usually develops through a combination of biological, medical, behavioral, and environmental factors. It is not caused by a lack of willpower alone. Common contributing factors include:

• Genetics and family history, which can influence metabolism, appetite, and fat storage
• Eating patterns, including regularly consuming more energy than the body uses
• Limited physical activity and extended periods of sedentary behavior
• Hormonal or medical conditions that affect metabolism or weight regulation
• Certain medications that may increase appetite or promote weight gain
• Poor sleep, which can disrupt hormones involved in hunger and fullness
• Chronic stress, emotional eating, and behavioral factors
• Age-related changes in muscle mass and metabolism
• Environmental factors, including limited access to nutritious foods or safe places for exercise

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab, we evaluate each patient’s health history, lifestyle, weight patterns, and individual challenges to identify contributing factors and develop a personalized weight management plan.

Obesity can affect nearly every system in the body because excess body fat may alter metabolism, increase inflammation, and place additional strain on the heart, joints, muscles, and spine. Over time, it can raise the risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, certain cancers, and mobility limitations. It may also contribute to fatigue, reduced endurance, joint discomfort, and difficulty performing everyday activities.

Obesity can also influence emotional well-being, sleep quality, confidence, and overall quality of life. Because its effects vary from person to person, a medical evaluation can help identify individual risk factors and related health concerns. At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC, our team reviews each patient’s medical history, weight patterns, lifestyle, and current health to create a personalized plan. Ongoing support may help improve weight management, mobility, energy, and long-term health outcomes through sustainable changes.

You should see an obesity medicine specialist when weight loss remains difficult despite consistent efforts with nutrition and physical activity, or when lost weight repeatedly returns. A consultation may also be helpful if excess weight affects your mobility, energy, sleep, emotional well-being, or ability to perform everyday activities. Obesity is influenced by multiple medical, metabolic, behavioral, and environmental factors, so specialized evaluation can help identify barriers that general weight-loss plans may overlook.

Consider seeking professional guidance if you have concerns such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, blood sugar changes, joint discomfort, sleep problems, or a family history of weight-related conditions. Overweight and obesity may increase the risk of several chronic health concerns, making early, medically supervised care valuable for protecting long-term health.

At Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab, Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, reviews each patient’s medical history, weight patterns, previous efforts, lifestyle habits, and personal goals. She develops an individualized plan and provides ongoing monitoring to help patients pursue realistic, sustainable progress.

Dr. Meisha K. Abbasinejad, MD, is board-certified in Obesity Medicine and provides individualized weight management care at Cape Fear Physical Medicine and Rehab in Fayetteville, NC. She evaluates each patient’s medical history, weight patterns, previous weight loss efforts, lifestyle habits, and related health concerns to better understand the factors affecting weight. This detailed evaluation allows her to recommend a plan based on the patient’s specific needs, goals, and overall health.

Dr. Abbasinejad focuses on realistic, sustainable progress rather than a one-size-fits-all strategy. She provides ongoing monitoring, practical guidance, and adjustments when appropriate to help patients overcome common weight management challenges. Through clear communication and attentive follow-up, she helps patients understand their options, improve mobility and daily function, and work toward better long-term health. Contact us today or schedule an appointment, and let us help treat your weight issues and help you successfully achieve your weight loss goals. We are conveniently located at 1540 Purdue Dr, Ste. 200, in Fayetteville, NC 28303. We serve patients from Fayetteville NC, Woodfield NC, Hope Mills NC, Fort Bragg NC, Eastover NC, and surrounding areas.