Major medical groups, experts call for an end to obesity-related stigma

Scientists and major medical organizations are calling for an end to the stigma faced by individuals with obesity. "Weight stigma and discrimination are pervasive and cause significant harm to affected individuals," an international panel of 36 experts write in a new statement, which was co-signed by major organizations including the American Diabetes Association, the World Obesity Federation, and several international research journal groups, all of which also pledged to take steps to end weight-based stigma. Beyond causing physical and psychological harm, such discrimination can also lead to those with obesity having reduced access to care, the experts write. They also share a set of recommendations, including non-stigmatizing media portrayals of individuals with obesity, and implementing policies to outlaw weight-based discrimination.