“Obesity is a multi-factorial, chronic disease,” says Dr. Sara Shields Tarwater, a board-certified, fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon at Tidelands Health, who specializes in weight loss. Beyond what’s in the genes, there are some key drivers that we look for with patients who are struggling to lose weight.”Dr. Shields Tarwater shares common reasons why some people aren’t losing weight. “Sometimes patients may not realize that a medication they are taking is contributing to their unhealthy weight,” Dr. Shields Tarwater says. “Primary care providers have lots of experience helping patients find their path to ideal weight,” Dr. Shields Tarwater says. Options include:Consultation with a dietitianLifestyle changesPsychological counselingMedication adjustmentsWeight-loss medicationsWeight-loss surgery“The key is to take that first step,” Dr. Shields Tarwater says.