196: The Disease of Obesity & Weight Bias in Healthcare – Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford

<p>Obesity, Pre-Obesity, Health Disparities and the Importance of Early Treatment</p> <p>An unmet medical need exists in obesity and pre-obesity (overweight). While 80% of healthcare professionals recognize obesity as a “disease” only 65% of patients with obesity recognize its seriousness and only 38% of people with obesity reported discussing a weight loss plan with their healthcare provider within the past six months. Likewise, clinicians report a reluctancy to initiate conversations about weight management due to lack of time during visits and other health issues to address.</p> <p>The truth is this: if weight bias in healthcare, health disparities and access to treatment are addressed there are many credible treatment options available that can help the more than 70% of U.S. adults with overweight and obesity.</p> <p>Tune in to this episode to learn about:</p> <ul> <li>Why obesity is a “disease” and how both healthcare professionals and patients need to recognize this in order to maximize treatment</li> <li>Pre-obesity and why language matters in conversations around overweight and obesity</li> <li>Why healthcare providers may be reluctant to initiate conversations about weight with their patients</li> <li>Weight stigma and bias among healthcare professionals and patients themselves</li> <li>Health disparities in overweight and obesity</li> <li>The importance of early treatment, treatment options, and access to these options</li> <li>What patients and healthcare professionals can do to decrease stigma and improve treatment of overweight and obesity</li> </ul> <p>Full shownotes and resources at: <a href= "http://www.SoundBitesRD.com/196">www.SoundBitesRD.com/196</a>   </p>