Obesity

Obesity is a very common term. But what does it mean? Obesity is when you have too much body mass which presents a risk to your health. Obesity can also increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.

What are the Risk Factors?

Know the risk factors for obesity. They include:

• Lack of activity
• Unhealthy food choices
• Lack of sleep
• Long-term stress
• Family history/genetics

What are Some Common Symptoms?

• Breathlessness
• Increased sweating
• Snoring
• Difficulty doing physical activity
• Often feeling very tired
• Joint and back pain
• Low confidence and self-esteem
• Feeling isolated

How Can I Get Tested for Obesity?

Your provider may collect your medical history to test for obesity. This will include a review of symptoms and risk factors. They may also perform an obesity screening. You may also get tested via waist/skinfold measurements and a BMI reading.

How Can I Manage My Obesity?

If you are diagnosed with being overweight or obese, you and your health care provider will work together to develop a treatment plan. Your provider will likely create a plan to reduce your daily calories. They will also provide ideas to be more physically active, and ways to adopt lifelong healthy lifestyle changes.

You should get services such as obesity screenings, counseling, medications, and weight-loss programs reviewed to determine TRICARE benefits and coverage.

What does TRICARE cover?

We cover services that are medically necessaryTo be medically necessary means it is appropriate, reasonable, and adequate for your condition., including tests, treatment, and more for eligible beneficiaries.

Obesity Treatment

Weight Control

Videos

Obesity: The Little Things 

Resources

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Calculate Your Body Mass Index (BMI)

Causes of Obesity

ChooseMyPlate.gov

Choosing a Safe and Successful Weight-Loss Program

Daily Food and Activity Diary – printable form

Food Diary – printable form

Guide to Behavior Change

Guide to Physical Activity

Healthy Weight, Nutrition, and Physical Activity

MOVE! Coach – Mobile Phone Weight Management App for Veterans

Obesity Screening

Physical Activity Diary – printable form

Sample Menus to Eat Right and Lose Weight

Total Force Fitness – Health.mil

Weight Control

Weight Loss Medicines

Weight Loss Surgery

There is care and support for qualifying beneficiaries who want to improve their weight management. Our experienced staff will guide you to a healthier lifestyle to improve your self-management and quality of life. For questions or to enroll, call toll-free at 800-881-9227.