Treatment of Adults with Obesity Using The Unified Health System: An Interdisciplinary Proposal
Ms Liz Elaine Sowek*, Márcia Regina Carletto and Erildo Vicente Muller
ABSTRACT
Obesity is a multifactorial chronic disease requiring interdisciplinary care. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a group-based interdisciplinary intervention for adults with obesity using the Unified Health System (SUS). Conducted in Ponta Grossa, PR, from October 2018 to June 2019, qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with nine participants selected based on significant quantitative outcomes. A clinical and sociodemographic questionnaire supported the data collection. Data were analyzed using Bardin's content analysis and QDAS Nvivo 11 software. The intervention emphasized cognitive restructuring, self-monitoring, gamification, coping strategies, and nutritional education, led by a dietitian, psychologist, and physical educator. Participants reported improvements in self-awareness, behavioral changes, and health literacy. Key themes included enhanced emotional regulation, motivation for lifestyle
modifications, and perceived benefits of group dynamics. These findings underscore the potential for replicating low-cost, interdisciplinary interventions in public health systems, offering substantial psychosocial and behavioral benefits in managing obesity.
