WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CLINIC

Dr Marlis Ryan is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) with further qualifications in Obesity Medicine, reflecting her strong commitment to evidence-based, comprehensive care. She holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Studio Arts, along with her Medical degree (MBBS) from the University of Queensland. Her special interests include obesity management, preventative health, skin procedures, and women’s health, allowing her to provide holistic, patient-focused care grounded in both clinical expertise and empathy.

Dr. Ryan understands the complexities surrounding weight-related health issues and approaches each patient with compassion and understanding. She is SCOPE certified, and her approach focuses on sustainable and personalised solutions. As the only internationally-recognised weight management qualification, SCOPE Certification is the ‘international gold standard’ for HCPs treating obesity. Dr Ryan draws on this expertise to support patients with practical, long-term strategies tailored to their unique needs—empowering them to feel confident, supported, and in control of their health journey.

Weight management is about far more than appearance—it’s about protecting your long-term health. In Australia, the rising rates of overweight and obesity have become a serious public health concern. Around 75% of men, 60% of women, and nearly 25% of children are now carrying excess body fat. This has led to a surge in obesity-related chronic conditions such as:

• insulin resistance
• high blood pressure
• atherosclerosis
• cardiovascular disease
• stroke
• some cancers including breast, endometrial and colon cancer
• type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus)
• gall bladder disease
• polycystic ovarian syndrome
• musculoskeletal problems such as osteoarthritis and back pain
• gout
• cataracts
• stress incontinence
• sleep apnoea.
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Managing your weight in a healthy, sustainable way plays a key role in reducing the risk of these chronic and often life-threatening conditions.

Despite the promises of the billion-dollar weight-loss industry, there is no miracle solution to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Fad diets and quick fixes may offer short-term results, but they rarely support long-term health. The most effective approach is to adopt small, manageable changes in eating and physical activity that can be maintained as part of your lifestyle. These consistent habits not only help reduce excess body fat but also support better sleep, mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

The health risks associated with obesity don’t just depend on how much body fat you carry, but also on how much weight you gain over time. Even a moderate weight increase in adulthood can raise your risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes. Obesity is also linked to sleep apnoea, osteoarthritis, certain cancers, and fertility issues such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Effective weight management is a proactive step toward preventing these conditions, improving your wellbeing, and enjoying a healthier, more active life—regardless of what the number on the scale says.