Addressing weight bias and stigma in health care
Symposium PresentationANGELA ALBERGA, PhD
Department of Exercise Science
Concordia University
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 the 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.