That This man's BMI and waist circumference indicate that he is obese, and he has more than three indicators of metabolic syndrome. Because of his history of cardiovascular disease, his past failed attempts to lose weight, and his elevated blood pressure, treatment is indicated. Phentermine would be a good initial choice but carries significant risks in patients with cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. Orlistat is a safer choice for pharmacologic therapy. An oral antidiabetic agent would be used if insulin resistance were present, but his fasting plasma glucose is normal. A strict change in diet is warranted but in this case should be combined with pharmacologic treatment.
