Mahesh Shrestha, MD, understands obesity can be a precursor to a variety of diseases.
He also knows there are many factors that contribute to obesity, including some that are beyond a patient’s control.
As a pediatrician at WMed, Dr. Shrestha is now working to address what he believes is a critical need in the community – a dedicated clinic with treatment options for children who are overweight and/or obese.
Dr. Shrestha, who is board certified in obesity medicine, will begin seeing patients in March at the new WMed Health Pediatric Obesity practice on the Oakland Drive Campus.
The new clinic, which launches March 3, will be open on Mondays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to noon and is now accepting new patients.
“Many factors could be there within your reach to help yourself, such as diet and exercise, but there could also be factors beyond what you can do, including availability and access to healthy food,” Dr. Shrestha said. “This clinic serves as a good opportunity for WMed to spread awareness about pediatric obesity and help those in need.”
Dr. Shrestha said the clinic will primarily focus on educating families and promoting preventative measures such as modified diet and exercise, though, when necessary, some FDA approved medications may be prescribed on a case-by-case basis.
Overall, Dr. Shrestha said he is thrilled to add preventative and long-term care for pediatric obesity to the growing array of services provided by WMed Health, as these efforts will help children achieve better health outcomes long-term.
“When you are young, even subtle changes in your diet can be enough to avoid obesity,” Dr. Shrestha said. “Having those conversations early on, before children form their dietary habits, can be really helpful.”
For more information about the WMed Health Pediatric Obesity practice, call 269.337.6400 or email pedsclinic@wmed.edu.