Videos

Care for weight loss has changed dramatically in just a few years. New medications, minimally invasive procedures, improved surgical techniques, and a deeper understanding of the biology of obesity have transformed treatment—and patient expectations. Yet with so much noise in the media, many patients still feel confused, hesitant, or unsure where to start.

In our newest video, 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. Below is a recap of some of the most important insights they shared.

Obesity Is a Chronic Disease—Not a Personal Failure

Both physicians emphasize something the medical community now knows clearly: obesity is driven by complex hormonal, genetic, and metabolic factors, not simply “calories in, calories out.” Dr. Stark notes that key hormones such as leptin were only discovered in the 1990s—meaning our understanding of obesity is still evolving, but evolving fast.

This shift is critical because it helps reduce stigma. As Dr. Samreen puts it:

“We don’t shame patients for seeking care for diabetes or heart disease—yet we still shame people seeking treatment for obesity.”

Modern Bariatric Surgery Is Safe, Standardized, and Highly Effective

Many prospective patients are surprised to learn how far bariatric surgery has come. Dr. Samreen explains that UTMB Health is a nationally accredited Center of Excellence, meeting the highest standards set by the American College of Surgeons.

Key points she highlights:

• Less than 1% major complication rate
• One-night hospital stay
• Robotic and minimally invasive procedures
• Outcomes comparable to common surgeries like gallbladder removal

She stresses that outdated perceptions—open surgeries, longer recovery times, higher risks—simply don’t reflect today’s reality.

When to Consider Surgery vs. Medication

Dr. Stark walks through how she helps patients determine the right path:

• She looks at BMI, health conditions, personal goals, and expected weight-loss outcomes of each treatment.
• If medications or lifestyle changes alone can’t safely get a patient to their health goals, she refers them to Dr. Samreen.
• Patients with type 2 diabetes especially benefit from surgery, which is often the most effective long-term treatment for diabetes remission.

Both physicians emphasize that the right treatment varies—and the beauty of UTMB’s program is that patients don’t have to choose blindly.

A Whole-Team Approach: The Power of Multidisciplinary Care

One of the strongest messages from both physicians is that no single treatment works in isolation.

UTMB’s program includes:

• Bariatric surgeons
• Obesity medicine physicians
• Registered dietitians
• Counselors
• Physical therapists
• Body composition and metabolism testing
• Long-term follow-up for lasting success

This cohesive, connected model helps prevent a major risk in weight-loss care: loss of muscle mass, which can undermine long-term metabolic health. UTMB monitors muscle and fat composition continuously—something not always available through online or non-accredited programs.

New Advances: Endoscopic Procedures and Evolving Medications

The conversation also dives into exciting new options:

Endoscopic Bariatric Procedures

Incisionless, performed through the mouth, with lower cost and faster recovery. Ideal for patients with moderate obesity or those who can’t tolerate long-term medications.

New Medication Developments

Dr. Stark discusses:

• New FDA-approved oral GLP-1 medications
• Reduced cash-pay pricing for several anti-obesity medications
• Anticipated Medicare coverage improvements
• The growing role of medications in treating weight regain after surgery

Both experts agree: we are in a breakthrough era for obesity care.

The Bottom Line: You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Patients often delay care because of fear, stigma, or confusion about where to start. Dr. Stark sums it up perfectly:

“Whatever their path—surgery, medication, or both—we just want to help our patients be healthy.”

This video is the first of many conversations between Dr. Samreen and Dr. Stark as they work to educate, empower, and support patients throughout Texas and beyond.

Watch the full conversation to learn more—and take the first step toward understanding your best options for long-term health.

Parents shouldn’t have to navigate genetic conditions alone. In this month’s Houston Moms + UTMB Health video, Dr. Erin Cooney explains how her team walks alongside families — helping them find clarity, treatment options, and support for the future.

To learn more, watch the full discussion.

Dr. Erin Cooney is an Associate Professor in the Division of Medical Genetics & Metabolism at UTMB Health, serving as Medical Director for UTMB Biochemical Genetics & Newborn Screening and the UTMB Genetics of Autism Clinic, and Medical Supervisor for UTMB Prenatal Genetics. Dr. Cooney’s clinical focus is on medical genetics and the inborn errors of metabolism and advocates on a national level for improved metabolic practices through the Society for Inherited Metabolic Disorders Public Policy Committee.

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UTMB Pediatric Urologist Dr. Jonathan Gerber spoke with Houston Moms host Meagan Clanahan, covering topics like circumcision, bedwetting, and other common urological issues in children. Get expert insights and practical advice every parent should hear.

To learn more, watch the full discussion.

Dr. Jonathan Gerber s a fellowship trained Pediatric Urologist who believes that the child is the most important person in the room during a clinic visit and should be treated as such in order to alleviate the usual fear of seeing a doctor. His clinical interests include the full breadth of pediatric urology, from prenatal urologic counseling, newborn circumcisions and revisions to hernias, hydrocele and undescended testicles. He sees hydronephrosis, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, obstructive uropathy, neurogenic bladder including spina bifida, and hypospadias.

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At the University of Texas Medical Branch, pet therapy plays a key role in pediatric care. Certified therapy dogs visit regularly, helping young patients cope with the stress of hospitalization and offering a welcome distraction from any procedures and uncertainty.

UTMB’s team child life specialists work closely with volunteers to support the emotional and developmental needs of both patients and their families, ensuring care goes beyond physical treatment.

For families like Heather’s, whose daughter was hospitalized for the first time, the impact of a visit from therapy dog Rosie was unforgettable. 

“It’s been scary for her,” she said. “But I’m glad this experience will leave her with positive memories—not just the hard times.”

Volunteer Lindsay Weinmann, who has over a decade of pet therapy experience, sees the benefits firsthand. 

“I hope those few minutes spent with the dog give children a break from their worries and allow them to just smile,” she said.

At UTMB, healing is shaped not only by medical treatment but also by emotional well-being, community connection, and inclusive support systems, and pet therapy is just one of the many ways the hospital guarantees those being treated feel seen and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

“We have a holistic approach to our care here at the hospital, and it isn't just the medicines,” said Senior Child Life Specialist Regina Burdett. “It's about the emotional state mindset of a patient and family. It's everybody involved. So, our dogs are just one of the tools that we have in our toolbox to help them out.”

UTMB child psychologists Dr. Claire Kirk and Dr. Cody Dodd spoke with Houston Moms Meagan Callahan about how to help children navigate traumatic events and disasters. They shared expert advice on fostering resilience, having age-appropriate conversations, and recognizing when it's time to seek professional support.

To learn more, watch the full discussion.

Dr. Kirk is a licensed clinical psychologist and assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UTMB. She engages in clinical work, research, teaching, and training, with the aim of advancing the field of clinical psychology, particularly as it relates to childhood trauma. She is also dedicated to improving access to mental health care for vulnerable and underserved youth.

Summer brings long days, new adventures, and unexpected risks for young children. Did you know that most unintentional ingestions happen in just a moment, often when a caregiver steps away for just a second? These accidents can happen fast, but the good news is, many are preventable.

 

Here are five expert tips to help keep your child safe this summer:

1. Store Safely: Keep medications, vitamins, and cleaning products up high and locked away—out of sight and out of reach.

2. Keep Original Containers: Never transfer dangerous liquids like bleach or detergent into drink bottles or food containers. Original packaging helps prevent confusion and contains safety information.

3. Beware of Lookalikes: Colorful detergent pods and gummy vitamins can look like candy to young children. Store them securely and talk to kids about not eating anything unless it’s given by an adult.

4. Stay Alert When Traveling: When visiting friends or family, scan the environment. Grandparents’ nightstands or open purses may contain medications or items that pose a risk to curious kids.

5. Know What to Do: If your child swallows something they shouldn't, don’t wait—call the Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. They’re available 24/7 to help.

With a few simple precautions, you can prevent many of the most common summertime ingestion accidents. Stay safe, stay aware—and enjoy a healthy summer with your family.

Summer in Texas brings soaring temperatures, outdoor fun—and the need for extra hydration, especially for kids. But what if your child isn’t a fan of drinking water? Fortunately, there are easy and creative ways to help keep your little ones hydrated all summer long. 

1. Make Water Fun and Accessible: Sometimes, it’s all about presentation. Let your child pick out a fun new water bottle—one they’ll want to drink from. Add some excitement by freezing fresh fruit into ice cubes or making homemade popsicles with ingredients like coconut water and berries.
2. Add Hydrating Fruits and Veggies: Foods like watermelon, oranges, cucumbers, and lemons pack a hydration punch. Incorporate these into snacks or infuse them into water for added flavor and appeal.
3. Be a Role Model: Kids mimic what they see. Drinking water regularly in front of your child makes it more likely they’ll follow suit. Set the example by keeping your own water bottle handy and taking regular sips throughout the day.
4. Limit Sugary Drinks: Juice, soda, sweet tea, and even lemonade might seem refreshing, but they can contribute to dehydration. Limiting these beverages supports better hydration and overall health.

Proper hydration supports your child’s energy, mood, and physical well-being. By building these simple habits into your family’s routine, you’ll help ensure your kids stay healthy and refreshed all summer long.

For more information on children's health and wellness measures --including care options -- visit the UTMB Health Pediatrics page.

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, UTMB Health's Dr. Kim Gushanas sat down with Houston Moms for a heartfelt discussion about grief, mourning and how to speak about death of loved ones to your children. 

To learn more, watch the full discussion.