Obesity is not a simple matter of willpower, it is a complex, multifactorial disease influenced by genetics, environment, and biology, requiring a shift in both perception and treatment.

In this episode, Dr. Alex Craven, a highly skilled general surgeon with a specialisation in obesity and upper gastrointestinal surgery discusses the evolving understanding of obesity and metabolic health, highlighting the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the condition. He explains how new research is shifting perspectives on obesity from being a simple lifestyle issue to a complex medical condition requiring individualized treatment. He covers the role of medical and surgical interventions, the importance of including lived experiences in discussions, and the need for a more holistic and patient-centered approach to obesity care. Dr. Craven also emphasizes the necessity of proper long-term support for patients, whether through metabolic surgery or emerging medical therapies, and critiques the current healthcare system’s lack of accessibility and resources for individuals with obesity.

Listen in as Dr. Alex Craven unpacks the latest insights on obesity, metabolic health, and the future of treatment—breaking myths, sharing expert perspectives, and advocating for real change in patient care.

 

Episode Highlights:

• The evolving understanding of obesity as a complex disease rather than a lifestyle issue
• The significance of genetic and environmental factors in obesity development
• Importance of including people with lived experience in discussions on obesity care
• The role of metabolic and bariatric surgery in long-term obesity treatment
• Challenges in addressing obesity within the current healthcare system
• The growing impact of GLP-1 medications and concerns about long-term follow-up
• Why obesity should be treated with the same urgency as other chronic diseases
• How personalized treatment plans can improve patient outcomes
• The need for multidisciplinary care
• Future advancements in obesity treatment, including phenotyping and precision medicine
• The importance of shifting public perception and reducing obesity stigma

About Our Guest:

Dr Alex Craven is a highly skilled general surgeon with a specialisation in obesity and upper gastrointestinal surgery. He offers consultations and performs surgeries through Advanced Surgical and Darebin Weight Loss Surgery and also serves as an Obesity and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon at Austin Hospital.

Born and raised in the country, Dr Craven brings a down-to-earth and approachable style to his practice, making patients feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey. A devoted family man, he balances his professional life with raising his family alongside his wife, who is a paramedic.

Dr Craven earned his medical degree from the University of Queensland and completed his general surgery training at Austin and Northern Hospitals under the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS). He further honed his expertise through post-fellowship training in obesity and upper gastrointestinal surgery. Dr Craven has been recognised as a leading contributor for his ongoing support of the Bariatric Surgery Registry.

Passionate about helping patients manage obesity and its associated health conditions, Dr Craven is dedicated to improving their quality of life. At Darebin Weight Loss, he provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary obesity care, which includes supervised lifestyle interventions, obesity medication, and surgical solutions.

 

Connect with Dr Alex Craven

• Website | dralexcraven.com.au
• Facebook | facebook.com/dralexcraven
• Instagram | @dralexcraven

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.