Changing the global obesity narrative to recognize and reduce weight stigma: A position statement from the World Obesity Federation

Abstract

SummaryWeight stigma, defined as pervasive misconceptions and stereotypes associated with higher body weight, is both a social determinant of health and a human rights issue. It is imperative to consider how weight stigma may be impeding health promotion efforts on a global scale. The World Obesity Federation (WOF) convened a global working group of practitioners, researchers, policymakers, youth advocates, and individuals with lived experience of obesity to consider the ways that global obesity narratives may contribute to weight stigma. Specifically, the working group focused on how overall obesity narratives, food and physical activity narratives, and scientific and public‐facing language may contribute to weight stigma. The impact of weight stigma across the lifespan was also considered. Taking a global perspective, nine recommendations resulted from this work for global health research and health promotion efforts that can help to reduce harmful obesity narratives, both inside and outside health contexts.

CVOT Summit Report 2023: new cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic outcomes

“…Patients with diabetes report experiencing stigma in many life domains [ 106 ], a concern shared by people with obesity [ 107 ]. The psychological impact of living with a stigmatized condition is significant and may be a barrier to optimal self-care.…”

“…The psychological impact of living with a stigmatized condition is significant and may be a barrier to optimal self-care. Patient-physician communication plays an important role in diabetes and obesity management, and careful and constructive language should be used in conversations with people living with obesity, as well as a positive approach to recommending weight management programs [ 107 , 108 ].…”

Let's talk about obesity in respiratory disease

“…Whilst obesity is currently defined as a BMI ≥30 kg/m 2 , experts call for a move away from this sole criterion for diagnosis, rather clinical obesity should be conceptualized as a chronic disease, not based on body weight but on excess or dysfunctional adiposity. 4 To combat the global and increasing prevalence, the World Obesity Federation in collaboration with its global members, convenes a World Obesity Day on the 4th of March. World Obesity Day is a unified day of action that calls for a cohesive, cross-sector response.…”

“…This weight stigma causes discrimination and halts progress in health promotion. 4 Bias experienced by people living with obesity is unfortunately ingrained in healthcare professionals, families, and society. 14 Have a look at recent publications investigating obesity among respiratory patients and you will read 'obese subjects, obese asthmatics, obese people', these terms focus on the condition rather than the person.…”

Let’s talk differently about obesity

“…Health promotion must be inclusive of people living with obesity and we need human rights-based approaches to tackle stigma and discrimination, especially in health systems 4. Reducing weight stigma can go a long way to creating more equitable and inclusive societies—promoting healthy bodies and minds that embrace the wellbeing of all people 5…”