Obesity in Women: Paying a High Price

Women who are obese are at risk for conditions that are different from those experienced by men. Some of these conditions are gender based; others are socially determined. In societies where appearance and being thin are valued and promoted in the media, advertising, literature, and other areas, women who are obese are subject to biases and stereotyping that impact them socially, financially, and academically. Obesity should be assessed and managed in the same way as other chronic disorders with patient-centered care, respect, and support from the health care team. Clinicians must approach the subject of weight with sensitivity.