RT Journal
A1 Pagoto S, Ockene J
T1 WIndows of opportunity for smoking and weight loss counseling
JF Archives of Internal Medicine
JO Archives of Internal Medicine
YR 2009
FD February 9
VO 169
IS 3
SP 217
OP 218
DO 10.1001/archinternmed.2008.541
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/archinternmed.2008.541
AB 
Obesity and smoking are the 2 leading preventable causes of death in the United States.1 Evidence-based treatments for smoking cessation and weight loss have been established, yet only a minority of patients receive these treatments.2 Physicians have an important role via patient counseling that involves assessing, advising, agreeing on set goals, assisting the patient in getting needed support, and arranging follow-up. These steps are referred to as the 5 A’s and are effective in helping patients make lifestyle changes.3- 4 Despite the best efforts to counsel, patient motivation can be an undeniable barrier. Identifying windows of opportunity for patient receptiveness to lifestyle changes could help guide physicians as to when counseling will have the greatest effect.