The obesity crisis is a global health challenge, affecting over 2 billion adults and nearly tripling in prevalence over the past 40 years. Despite its significant impact as a chronic, complex disease driving non-communicable diseases (NCDs), obesity remains inadequately addressed in health systems worldwide. Research across 50 countries reveals substantial gaps in obesity prevention and management, including a lack of quality guidelines, insufficient healthcare professional training, and financial barriers to care. This neglect is reflected in the low priority given to obesity in national NCD strategies and the failure to meet global targets for halting its rise.

The persistent framing of obesity as a personal failure perpetuates stigma, both in society and within healthcare settings, where individuals with obesity often face bias and inadequate care. To address obesity effectively, it must be recognized and treated as a chronic disease, with healthcare professionals trained in the biological and physiological aspects of fat-mass regulation. Person-centered care and the use of respectful, non-stigmatizing language are essential in reshaping the narrative around obesity.

Reference: Arora M, Barquera S, Farpour Lambert NJ, et al. Stigma and obesity: the crux of the matter. Lancet Public Health. 2019 Nov;4(11):e549-e550. doi: 10.1016/S2468-2667(19)30186-0. Epub 2019 Oct 10. PMID: 31607597.