Training Helps Doctor Diagnose And Treat Obesity

Every three years, Columbus-area residents participate in a Community Health Needs Assessment - and every three years, the survey finds that obesity is a major health concern in our area.

Dr. Luke Lemke, a longtime family medicine doctor in Columbus, recently completed the 35th annual Blackburn course in obesity medicine to better serve our community in the midst of this epidemic.

"One of the concerns of the Community Health Needs Assessment survey has always been obesity and its effects on our loved ones," Lemke said. "The Blackburn course is one of the oldest and most respected in the country, and incorporates evidence-based practices and processes that have been used in many areas of the country. Our hope is that many of the ideas could be used here in our area to move the needle on decreasing the level of obesity. This is the greatest threat to our health."

Dr. Lemke participated in the Blackburn course in obesity medicine through Harvard Medical School in October 2022. Since then, he has used the skills he learned in the course.

"Dr. Lemke has used this training, along with his knowledge of lifestyle medicine, in association with our Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP) and Walk with a Doc programs," said Danielle Frewing, director of Occupational Health Services. "He also serves on the Platte County Lifestyle Coalition, whose mission is to achieve healthier lifestyles through the development of relationships with family, friends and neighbors by utilizing education, engagement and empowerment."

With this training, Dr. Lemke can serve the community in innovative ways to help combat obesity and other issues that accompany it.

"Obesity is associated with many other illnesses, such as diabetes, stroke and heart disease," said Frewing. "With this training, Dr. Lemke is not only able to identify, evaluate and manage these patients, but he can also provide lifestyle-based therapies including nutrition, physical activity and behavioral approaches."