About Us
Our Story
Dedicated to changing lives through comprehensive care
Golden Health Services (GHS) was founded with a singular vision: to provide a comprehensive solution to the growing childhood obesity crisis in the DMV area.
The CDC has established clear links between obesity and serious health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. In children, obesity can also lead to self-esteem problems and depression. Many obese children are likely to become obese adults, perpetuating a cycle of health challenges.
With 25.3% of US children now classified as obese and the economic and societal costs reaching approximately $1.4 trillion (up from $976 billion in 2014), our founder Vasco Ayere Avoka recognized the urgent need for a holistic, evidence-based approach to this complex issue.
GHS brings together a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals who work collaboratively to address all aspects of childhood obesity, from physical activity and nutrition to psychological well-being and environmental factors.
Vasco Ayere Avoka
Founder, Golden Health Services
Our Mission
To employ a holistic, evidence-based approach to managing childhood obesity, providing culturally competent care that addresses the physical, nutritional, psychological, and environmental factors affecting each child's health and wellbeing.
Our Vision
A future where all children in the DMV area have access to comprehensive obesity management resources, empowering them to lead healthier lives and reducing the long-term impact of obesity on individuals and communities.
Our Holistic Approach
Why we address all aspects of childhood obesity
At Golden Health Services, we understand that childhood obesity is a complex condition influenced by numerous factors. That's why we take a comprehensive approach that addresses:
Physical Activity
Research shows that while exercise alone has limited effect on weight loss, it significantly reduces mortality risk and plays a crucial role in regulating body composition during growth.
Nutrition
Obesity is a function of energy input and output. Our evidence-based dietary interventions help reduce both fat and nonfat body mass, customized to each child's specific needs.
Psychological Wellbeing
We recognize that emotional and behavioral support is critical for treatment adherence and long-term success.
Environmental Factors
Children have limited control over their environment. We assess and modify home and school environments to make healthy choices more accessible.
Medical Management
When appropriate, our medical team can prescribe FDA-approved medications for chronic weight management in pediatric patients aged 12 and older.
Our Impact
Making a difference in children's lives
Since our founding, Golden Health Services has worked with hundreds of families throughout the DMV area, helping children achieve healthier weights, improve their self-esteem, and develop sustainable healthy habits.
Our evidence-based, holistic approach has resulted in an 85% success rate, defined as achieving and maintaining a healthy weight for at least one year following program completion.
Join Our Childhood Obesity Prevention Program
Take the first step toward a healthier future for your child.