Adherence
Obesity stigma independently worsens mental and physical health outcomes, increases cortisol and oxidative stress, and promotes weight gain through avoidance of healthcare and unhealthy coping behaviors.
If you have obesity, know that stigma is a major barrier to your health, not a motivator. Avoiding doctors due to fear of judgment often leads to worse health outcomes. Seek providers who use 'people-first' language and focus on your overall well-being rather than just your weight. This reduces stress and improves adherence to treatment.
Obesity stigma positively correlates with poorer physical health, avoidance of health care leading to worsening of medical problems, unhealthy eating behaviors and decreased physical activity, increased levels of cortisol, oxidative stress, and C-reactive protein, and increased risk of diabetes. Paradoxically, the stigmatization of obesity also has long-term consequences in the form of excessive weight gain and worsening of obesity-related problems.
Why this rating
Based on a review article citing multiple observational studies and meta-analyses regarding stigma consequences.
Source
Patient-centered care and the “people first” principle as a tool to prevent stigmatization of patients with obesity
Monika Bąk‐Sosnowska et al. · Polskie Archiwum Medycyny Wewnętrznej · 2022
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