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Two clinicians seated side by side at microphones against a studio backdrop, one wearing a white lab coat and the other wearing maroon scrubs. Both face forward participating in a podcast.

Why primary care is the key to weight loss success: A conversation with Drs. Sarah Samreen, Andrea Stark, and Angela Raimer

May 5, 2026 • 12:38 p.m. by Carly Boers

Weight loss success isn’t built in a clinic, or an operating room, alone. Drs. Samreen, Stark, and primary care leader Angela Raimer explain why a strong primary care relationship is the foundation of safe, sustainable weight loss—before, during, and long after treatment.

Two adults seated at microphones in a studio setting, one wearing a white lab coat and the other wearing scrubs, speaking during a recorded conversation against a dark textured background

Obesity Week spotlight: Your questions answered by UTMB experts

March 5, 2026 • 4:02 p.m.

UTMB specialists return to tackle obesity myths, treatments, and red flags—bringing clarity to one of today’s most misunderstood health topics.

Photo of various types of protein including poultry, fish, lentils and beans

What your body wants you to know about rapid weight loss

February 25, 2026 • 12:50 p.m. by Margaret Battistelli Gardner

The “downside” of losing weight quickly—from medication, surgery or diet alone—can affect your energy, strength, digestion, and long-term success.

Two adults seated at microphones in a studio setting, one wearing a white lab coat and the other wearing scrubs, speaking during a recorded conversation against a dark textured background

Weighing in on the latest in obesity care: A conversation With Drs. Sarah Samreen and Andrea Stark

January 30, 2026 • 10:36 a.m.

UTMB Health bariatric surgeon Dr. Sarah Samreen and obesity medicine specialist Dr. Andrea Stark sit down for an open, candid conversation about what's new, what's misunderstood, and what patients need to know right now.

A woman wearing a green sweater and stethoscope stands in a bright hospital atrium.

UTMB Health elevates weight loss management with Dr. Andrea Stark

January 8, 2026 • 3:16 p.m. by Raegan Scharfetter

An accomplished researcher, author, educator, lecturer, and mentor, Dr. Stark brings a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to care that reflects the latest advances in the field.

Nurse coaching patient on an exercise bike

Ready for a Health Reset? UTMB Experts Share How to Start 2026 Strong

December 22, 2025 • 3:16 p.m. by Kathrine Adams

Health care provider wearing a surgical mask, cap and blue gown performs a procedure in an operating room, with medical equipment and surgical instruments visible in the background, illustrating minimally invasive bariatric surgery care

Real stories of health, confidence after bariatric surgery at UTMB Health

May 12, 2025 • 1:01 p.m. Source: May 12, 2025 by Chloe Chapel, Community Impact

For Patients of the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) Bariatric Surgery Program, Weight Loss is Only Part of the Story Bariatric Surgery Program, Weight Loss is Only Part of the Story. With the expert care of surgeons such as Dr. Sarah Samreen and Dr. Lauren McTaggart, patients of the program are not only losing weight but also reclaiming their lives.

Side-by-side full-length photos of the same individual against a soft blue background, showing a larger body size on the left wearing a purple dress and a smaller body size on the right wearing a patterned dress

Beyond weight loss: Bariatric Surgery team transforms patients' lives

January 27, 2025 • 2:05 p.m. by Chloe Chapel with the Community Impact Storytelling team

Did you know the UTMB Health Bariatrics team includes a dedicated dietitian and social worker to support patients on their journeys? They also host monthly support groups for pre-and-post-surgery individuals.

Three circular headshots arranged on a teal background. A medical symbol appears in the center.

Local mom shares bariatric weight loss journey

December 19, 2024 • 1:11 p.m.

UTMB Health Bariatrics patient Felicity Cunningham joined Houston Moms to share her journey of losing half her body weight after having bariatrics surgery at UTMB Health.

Two people outdoors on a sidewalk, one seated on an electric bike and the other standing beside it, with a street and buildings in the background

Doctor’s Orders: Get educated, get support when you’re on a weight-loss journey

October 23, 2024 • 4:59 p.m.

A yo-yo dieter for many years, Felicity Cunningham shares her journey as a bariatric patient. “My main message to everyone is that surgery is a wonderful tool, but you still must make the choices and the commitment. And you’ll get all the help you need at UTMB.”

Graphic showing a person holding a water bottle with a towel around the neck next to the MBSAQIP Accredited Center Quality Program seal.

UTMB Galveston now home to Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence

April 24, 2024 • 10:00 a.m.

Patients seeking surgical treatment for obesity and its related conditions have a high-quality choice for receiving care in the Greater Galveston area.

Colorful close-up images of fresh fruits, including tomatoes, oranges, corn, and watermelon, arranged side by side to represent healthy food choices and balanced nutrition

Take 7 small steps to lose weight

March 10, 2023 • 11:32 a.m.

The good news is you don’t have to figure it all out at once. Small changes make a huge difference in the long run, and it starts with taking that first small step that you can master.

Side-by-side images show the same adult at two different times, wearing different outfits in indoor settings, illustrating a visible physical change over time

More than a number on the scale: Lives transformed by bariatric surgery at UTMB Health

February 28, 2023 • 3:32 p.m. by Holly Galvan with Community Impact's Storytelling team

UTMB Health Bariatrics patient Lauren Burkhalter credits weight loss surgery with helping her live her best life.

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