Understanding obesity stigma

Jul 12 2007

The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is pleased to announce the release of its newest patient- focused brochure, titled "Understanding Obesity Stigma."

This free brochure was created in partnership with the Rudd Center for Food Policy & Obesity and is designed to provide individuals with an understanding of obesity stigma in areas such as work, school, the healthcare community and much more. It also provides readers with the tools and education needed to help in eliminating negative stigma and weight-bias.

"This brochure is an excellent resource for those affected by all forms of obesity. The disease of obesity carries with it one of the last forms of acceptable discrimination. We, as a society, need to make every possible effort to educate ourselves about weight stigma and eradicate it from our culture," said Joseph Nadglowski, Jr., OAC President and CEO.

The brochure also discusses the damaging effects of weight stigma such as depression, social rejection by peers, low self-esteem and much more. "The impact of weight stigma is damaging and long lasting. Thousands of children and adults are targets of weight bias and prejudice, leaving them vulnerable to serious emotional and physical health consequences," said Rebecca Puhl, PhD, from the Rudd Center for Food Policy & Obesity.

For more information on obesity stigma or to order the "Understanding Obesity Stigma" brochure free of charge, please visit http://www.obesityaction.org/ or contact the OAC National Office at (800) 717-3117 or [email protected]. An online version may also be viewed and downloaded on the OAC Web site.

The mission of the OAC is to elevate and empower those affected by obesity through education, advocacy and support. The OAC strives to educate obese individuals, family members and the public on obesity. In addition, the OAC will increase obesity education, work to improve access to medical treatments for the obese, advocate for safe and effective treatments and strive to eliminate the negative stigma associated with obesity.

http://www.obesityaction.org/