University Medical Center added obesity medicine services in 2026, giving patients important support in their weight-loss efforts.
“Obesity is a major public health concern that affects nearly every aspect of health,” said Dr. Tiffany Watson, a UMC family medicine physician who is certified in the practice of obesity medicine. “Our goal is to lower the risk of chronic disease and improve overall wellness through evidence-based treatment.”
Alabama’s adult obesity rate was 39% in 2024, according to the Alabama Department of Public Health. Obesity is closely linked to chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and certain cancers, Watson said. She provides care for patients using U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved weight-loss medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that also includes nutrition counseling, physical activity and lifestyle modifications.
Watson was awarded certification by the American Board of Obesity Medicine in 2026 for demonstrating advanced knowledge and competency in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of obesity and related health conditions.