Awareness of obesity's causes is not linked to less Weight-Related bias

Abstract

Weight stigma remains a major public health issue that negatively impacts individuals living with obesity. This study explores its prevalence in the Spanish adult population and examines whether viewing obesity as a disease influences societal attitudes. A representative sample of 1,000 adults participated in a Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview assessing knowledge, stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination related to obesity, along with sociodemographic data and personal beliefs about its causes. While 40.8% attributed obesity to a lack of self-control, 59.2% considered it a disease. Those in the latter group were more likely to recognize its multifactorial causes and support public funding for treatment. However, weight bias remained prevalent across both perspectives, with no significant differences in discriminatory attitudes. Around 30% of participants admitted to holding negative stereotypes or engaging in weight-based discrimination. These findings suggest that simply framing obesity as a disease does not meaningfully reduce weight stigma. Broader efforts are needed-beyond education alone-to challenge societal narratives and address structural contributors to bias, ultimately fostering a more supportive and inclusive environment for individuals affected by obesity.

Keywords: Discrimination; Education; Obesity; Stigma.