Obesity. It’s a word we hear all too often in today’s society. The prevalence of obesity has reached alarming levels, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s most recent survey revealing that 41.9% of Americans are living with this medical condition (2020 NHANES). This figure has risen significantly from 30.1% just two decades ago. The consequences of obesity extend far beyond mere numbers. Obesity-related diseases, such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease, are on the rise, compromising both the length and quality of people’s lives. Moreover, the financial burden placed on individuals with obesity is substantial, with medical costs averaging nearly $2,000 more per year compared to those with a healthy weight.
In the face of these disheartening statistics, we are pleased to welcome a new client that is determined to unravel the complexities of obesity and make a positive impact on countless lives. Unraveling Obesity, Inc., led by visionary founder Nermeen “Nina” Asham, BScN, RN, and Weight Loss Consultant, is a beacon of hope in the fight against this global epidemic. As a McGill-trained nurse, Nina possesses a deep-rooted commitment to improving people’s well-being. Her journey is guided by a profound sense of purpose: “I’m on a God-given mission to empower individuals to take charge of their health and lead a healthy lifestyle.”
Drawing from years of experience as a weight loss consultant, Nina developed an extensive client intake form. This 33-page document delves into various aspects of an individual’s life, ranging from medications and eating habits to physical activity, sleep patterns, and behavioral/psychological factors. By gathering this comprehensive information, Nina aims to understand each patient’s unique story, uncovering their strengths and challenges. This invaluable insight allows for tailored and effective treatments. However, Nina recognized the potential barrier of “survey fatigue” in the healthcare journey.
In 2020, she embarked on a groundbreaking endeavor: the creation of an online obesity screening tool based on the Obesity Medicine Association’s 4 pillars of clinical obesity treatment. Designed to be HIPAA-compliant, fast, reliable, accessible, and automated, this tool serves as an initial assessment resource for individuals concerned about maintaining a healthy weight and the healthcare professionals who guide and care for them. To develop this innovative solution, Nina assembled a team comprised of obesity medicine leaders, business and information technology experts, and obesity patient advocates. The result is the scientific screening tool available at unravelingobesity.com. This website also contains valuable educational resources about weight management and healthy lifestyle for patients (children, teenagers, and adults) as well as for healthcare providers.
Unraveling Obesity’s screening tool offers a free option to get started, allowing individuals to explore the initial pillar without charge. For a nominal fee of $1.99, users can access the full range of services, with an unlimited option also available. Healthcare providers can integrate this tool into their practices to supplement existing intake measures or enhance client services. The interface is currently offered in three languages—English, Spanish, and French—with the team actively finalizing an Arabic version. Additionally, Unraveling Obesity provides both adult and pediatric editions, recognizing that obesity affects individuals across communities and ages.
Nina’s vision extends beyond borders. She emphasizes, “Obesity isn’t only a problem for one small group. We want people around the world to be able to crack the code for better metabolic health and have access to reliable, science-based resources.” Unraveling Obesity’s screening tool serves as a catalyst for raising awareness about the importance of prevention. It equips patients and healthcare professionals with the comprehensive information needed to improve metabolic health and enhance quality of life.
Nina is especially proud of their youth ambassador program. “We want each person to be the beacon they are meant to be.”
Unraveling Obesity’s commitment to excellence is further exemplified through its membership with FITCI (Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc.). Nina’s decision to join FITCI was motivated by a desire to reinforce its solid business foundation, access a supportive business network, and engage with professionals and industry leaders for advice and long-term relationship building. FITCI’s reputation as a launchpad for successful ventures is strengthened by its strong ties to regional and national organizations, making it a hub of opportunities that often lead to exposure to potential investors, strategic partners, and more. FITCI also provides extensive mentorship and business support services, aligning with Unraveling Obesity’s growth aspirations. Nina intends to participate in the upcoming Edge Accelerator as well. These opportunities to collaborate, access resources, and tap into diverse skill sets strengthens their ability to bring this novel obesity solution to market faster and more effectively.
As Unraveling Obesity embarks on this transformative journey, we look forward to watching this company’s strides in combating the obesity epidemic while improving the quality of life for individuals around the world. Visit unravelingobesity.com to learn more about this groundbreaking initiative and the remarkable entrepreneurial team behind it.
