Symposium 2017

Celebrating Women`s Health

Addressing weight bias and stigma in health care

Symposium Presentation

Weight bias, stigma and discrimination refers to negative attitudes, beliefs, stereotypes and behaviours about obesity and people living with obesity. Perceived weight stigma has been identified as a barrier to weight management.

This presentation showcases the scientific research evidence to date on t​he forms of weight stigma, its physical and mental health consequences and how perceived weight stigma affects eating behaviours, physical activity pursuits and healthcare utilization.

This presentation is also challenging assumptions and stereotypes about body weight and offers practical solutions on how to promote healthy behaviours.