Weight bias and obesity stigma: considerations for the WHO European Region

Abstract

Weight bias is defined as negative attitudes towards, and beliefs about, others because of their weight. These negative attitudes are manifested by stereotypes and/or prejudice towards people with overweight and obesity. Internalized weight bias is defined as holding negative beliefs about oneself due to weight or size. Weight bias can lead to obesity stigma, which is the social sign or label affixed to an individual who is the victim of prejudice. Obesity stigma involves actions against people with obesity that can cause exclusion and marginalization, and lead to inequities – for example, when people with obesity do not receive adequate health care or when they are discriminated against in the workplace or in educational settings. The WHO Regional Office for Europe works with Member States in many different ways and through several policy frameworks to ensure that weight bias and obesity stigma among children and adults are addressed appropriately in national public health activities. This can be achieved through: research – collaborating with researchers and experts to identify and validate approaches to reduce weight bias and obesity stigma; exchange– sharing knowledge and best practices at national and local levels; and prioritization: exploring ways to elevate concerns about weight bias and obesity stigma in various arenas, including public policy, education and health care.