What's the name? Weight stigma and the battle against obesity
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 21, 2025

Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Rita Tanas1, Sergio Bernasconi2, Maria Marsella3
1Advisor of the Adolescence Study Group, Italian Pediatric Society, Ferrara, Italy. tanas.rita@gmail.com.
Insights
Childhood obesity is a growing global concern, often worsened by weight stigma which impedes treatment success. Anti-stigma training for healthcare professionals and using inclusive language are crucial for better disease management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Medical Social Science
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a significant and escalating global health issue, presenting challenges in effective treatment.
- Emerging research highlights weight stigma as a critical barrier to successful obesity interventions in children.
Discussion:
- Healthcare professionals, particularly pediatricians, require urgent anti-stigma training to address weight bias effectively.
- Implementing non-stigmatizing language and imagery across educational, healthcare, and media settings is vital.
Key Insights:
- Weight stigma negatively impacts the efficacy of childhood obesity treatments.
- A multi-faceted approach involving healthcare provider education and public awareness is necessary.
Outlook:
- Future strategies should prioritize comprehensive anti-stigma initiatives within healthcare systems and public discourse.
- Promoting inclusive environments in schools, sports, and media can foster better management of childhood obesity.
Abstract:
Childhood obesity has spread worldwide, it is on the rise, starts earlier and is more severe, despite all treatment attempts.According to recent studies, weight stigma is a factor that can hinder the success of therapies. Healthcare workers, mainly paediatricians, need to feel the urgency of anti-stigma training. The use of non-stigmatizing terminologies and images in various areas (school, sports clubs, healthcare, media, society in general) can improve disease management.
Related Concept Videos
Obesity
Drug Dosing: Obese Patients
Bulimia Nervosa
Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV
Anorexia Nervosa
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...

