More from our inbox:Fear in SchoolsWhen Nature Says Don’t Live Here, ListenPolitical DistractionsImage Credit...Daniel Forero

To the Editor:allin66

Re “Are We Thinking About Obesity All Wrong?,” by Julia Belluz (Opinion guest essay, Sept. 22):

The author rightly underscores the need for a precise medical definition of obesity and its causes, but it is crucial not to question its designation as a disease. Since the American Medical Association classified obesity as a disease in 2013, this designation has led to essential advancements, such as increased funding for research, broader insurance coverage and efforts to reduce stigma.

Obesity requires a comprehensive and nuanced approach that examines its metabolic, physical and psychological dimensions to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The American Diabetes Association (A.D.A.) has already established clinical practice standards that address the close relationship between Type 2 diabetes and obesity. These standards offer a holistic diagnostic framework, moving beyond the impersonal, universal approach, and focus on individualized care.

Furthermore, the A.D.A. is actively developing standards of care for obesity to provide additional guidance in this field. This forthcoming work aims to establish clearer protocols for diagnosis and treatment, ultimately improving care and outcomes for those living with obesity.

The wider medical community must also come together to establish uniform standards that provide clarity for practitioners and better care for people affected by obesity. The price of ambiguity is too high for those affected by this complex condition.

Nuha El SayedBostonThe writer is an endocrinologist and senior vice president for health care improvement at the American Diabetes Association.

To the Editor:

While this article was interesting, I felt that it missed a huge part of the obesity problem in the U.S. It didn’t connect the problems to our food industry or the standard American diet.

Bulletproofing America’s Classrooms

Ballistic armor companies are marketing protective products designed for the military to parents and schools. Some people see the items as unsettling but prudent; others find them infuriating.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber? Log in.

Want all of The Times? Subscribe.allin66

• How
• Should
• allin66
• We
• View