Do you ever wonder why the obesity epidemic continues to grow worldwide? Do you want to know how you can be part of the change? This conversation goes beyond borders to shine a light on the urgent need for better obesity awareness, more inclusive bariatric support, and stronger access to care across the globe. We’re here to show you that your story matters and that solutions exist, no matter where you live.
In this episode, we talk with Dr. Ricardo Cohen, a leading obesity medicine specialist and president of IFSO (International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders) from São Paolo, Brazil, who shares his expertise on the global state of obesity care. Together, we discuss the new obesity definition, why obesity diagnosis matters, and how individualized obesity treatment—from lifestyle interventions to weight loss surgery—can help fight this chronic disease.
Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month! You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.
IN THIS EPISODE:
- (00:49) Join the TREO Foundations, ‘The Walk’ on Saturday, September 27th
- (01:48) Dr. Cohen highlights his work in obesity research and obesity treatment
- (02:35) Preclinical obesity vs clinical obesity, obesity diagnosis and obesity stigma
- (04:39) Discusses the global rise of the obesity epidemic, pointing to obesity genetics
- (07:30) Discussion of a biological, chronic, complex disease with no single solution for obesity treatment
- (10:35) Discussion of obesity awareness, access to obesity support, and improving obesity outcomes
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The obesity epidemic is not just a U.S. issue—it’s a global health challenge. This episode highlights how obesity care and bariatric support can break stigma, improve access to treatment, and empower patients around the world.
- Like other progressive conditions such as diabetes, lupus, and cancer, obesity requires a thorough understanding of its progression and a comprehensive, multi-faceted medical approach. It is also a disease that both deserves and needs proper treatment.
- The TREO Foundation is leading the way by funding obesity research and expanding access to care. Their mission supports better treatments, early diagnosis, and more inclusive approaches to obesity awareness worldwide.
- BariNation is proud to be the national sponsor of the Trio Foundation’s Walk, standing with the bariatric community in advancing obesity treatment, building community resources, and offering inspiration and hope for anyone navigating their journey.
RESOURCES:
Tune in, and don’t forget to join the BariNation Community to attend community meetups, watch exclusive bonus content and support the podcast for as little as $5 per month! You can also contribute to BariNation and become a Drive To Thrive Supporter with a one-time or recurring donation.
BariNation’s How to Find an Obesity Specialist Guide
International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
Join BariNation on the TREO Walk
BIOGRAPHY:
Dr. Ricardo Cohen, with over 30 years of experience, including 15 at Hospital Alemão Oswaldo Cruz, is a globally recognized bariatric surgeon named among the top 30 by ASMBS. With over 10,000 surgeries, he pioneers research on metabolic surgery for type 2 diabetes. He holds a PhD from the University of São Paulo, is editor of Obesity Surgery, and was the former president of the 2016 IFSO World Congress in Rio.
Additionally, he is a past president of SBCBM (2011-2012) and IFSO Latin American Chapter (2018-2019), and he is currently the President of The International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO), a Federation composed of national associations of bariatric surgeons and Integrated Health professionals. Currently, there are 76 official member societies of IFSO, as well as individual members from countries that thus far have not formed a national association.
ABOUT:
If the BariNation podcast helps power your bariatric journey, become a monthly podcast supporter and help us produce the show! Visit www.barinationpodcast.com and help us support people treating the disease of obesity with humor, humility, and honesty.
About BariNation: BariNation is a bariatric educational organization on a mission to empower patients to access and utilize the tools, resources, and education needed to find and maintain personal wellness. We connect patients with the support they need and when and where they need it. BariNation produces an award-winning weekly podcast distributed on all major podcast and video platforms and hosts a support membership community that teams up with credentialed and licensed bariatric experts and clinicians.