weight bias
We are at a crossroads where the advancements in obesity science and treatment outpace a workforce that is not fully prepared to apply these breakthroughs. This is the first line in the Introduction to my just-released book published by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, called Patient-Centered Weight Management: The Six Factor Professional Program and…
One of the greatest barriers to accessing care for people with overweight or obesity are patients’ feelings of being judged by others because of excess weight. As I educate health care professionals about caring for patients with the disease of obesity, I address this by making sure that clinicians are firstly aware of their own…
If you’re someone who struggles with weight, you may also struggle talking about weight with your health care provider. I know this because for the past 40 years I have talked to thousands of patients about weight and have seen firsthand how difficult this conversation can be for many individuals. Difficulties can range from people…
As a passionate clinician, educator, researcher and advocate, I have dedicated my career to helping improve the lives of those affected by being overweight or having the disease of obesity. I’m also a member of a group that is one of the fastest growing specialties in medicine – obesity medicine physician specialists. Though I appreciate…
If you’re like my patients, most likely the Covid-19 pandemic has made you re-evaluate your health habits and even inspired you to better manage your weight. If you’re serious about getting help to do so, a good place to begin is by reaching out to your PCP. You see weight management really is a team…
Too often, patients share comments they’ve received from their health care provider that make them feel shamed about their weight. Examples include: “If you just eat less and exercise more, you wouldn’t be so big.” “You need to stop eating or your knees will never get better.” “If you keep eating so much, you’re destined…
