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. 2016 Jul-Aug;12(7):425-432.
doi: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2016.05.013.

Obesity Stigma and Bias

Sharon M Fruh  1 , Joe Nadglowski  2 , Heather R Hall  3 , Sara L Davis  4 , Errol D Crook  5 , Kimberly Zlomke  6
Affiliations

Obesity Stigma and Bias

Sharon M Fruh et al. J Nurse Pract. 2016 Jul-Aug.

Abstract

Overweight and obesity are escalating in epidemic proportions in the United States. Individuals with overweight and obesity are often reluctant to seek medical help, not only for weight reduction but also for any health issue because of perceived provider discrimination. Providers who are biased against individuals with obesity can hinder our nation's effort to effectively fight the obesity epidemic. By addressing weight bias in the provider setting, individuals affected by obesity may be more likely to engage in a meaningful and productive discussion of weight. Providers need to be the go-to source for obesity-focused information on new and emerging treatments.

Keywords: media and weight bias; obesity bias; obesity stigma; provider bias; weight discrimination; weight stigmatization.

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Conflict of interest statement

Dr. Fruh serves on the Novo Nordisk Obesity Speakers Bureau. In compliance with national ethical guidelines, the authors report no relationships with business or industry that would pose a conflict of interest.

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