196: The Disease of Obesity & Weight Bias in Healthcare – Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford

Obesity, Pre-Obesity, Health Disparities and the Importance of Early Treatment

An unmet medical need exists in obesity and pre-obesity (overweight). While 80% of healthcare professionals recognize obesity as a “disease” only 65% of patients with obesity recognize its seriousness and only 38% of people with obesity reported discussing a weight loss plan with their healthcare provider within the past six months. Likewise, clinicians report a reluctancy to initiate conversations about weight management due to lack of time during visits and other health issues to address.

The truth is this: if weight bias in healthcare, health disparities and access to treatment are addressed there are many credible treatment options available that can help the more than 70% of U.S. adults with overweight and obesity.

Tune in to this episode to learn about:

• Why obesity is a “disease” and how both healthcare professionals and patients need to recognize this in order to maximize treatment
• Pre-obesity and why language matters in conversations around overweight and obesity
• Why healthcare providers may be reluctant to initiate conversations about weight with their patients
• Weight stigma and bias among healthcare professionals and patients themselves
• Health disparities in overweight and obesity
• The importance of early treatment, treatment options, and access to these options
• What patients and healthcare professionals can do to decrease stigma and improve treatment of overweight and obesity

Full shownotes and resources at: www.SoundBitesRD.com/196