Stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs about obesity among dental team members

Weight stigma is prevalent within healthcare settings and is an aspect of the lived experience of people living with obesity. There is international evidence of weight stigma in the dental setting, where currently there is also evidence indicating limited training amongst dental professionals regarding obesity or obesity-related stigma. There has been Australian research and none have included dental support staff.

This cross-sectional survey aimed to assess stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs of dental professionals (registered general dentists, oral health therapists) and support staff (dental assistants, dental receptionists) working in private and public regional practices in New South Wales and specialists in Special Needs Dentistry across Australia toward people living with obesity.

An anonymous electronic validated survey was administered through REDCap™ to assess stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs held amongst respondents in relation to people living with obesity.

Fifty-three participants completed the survey (n = 33 clinicians, n = 20 support staff). The majority 47/53 (88.7%) held positive attitudes toward people living with obesity. Of the clinicians, 15/33 (45.5%) reported 1 hour or less and 14/33 (42.4%) reported two to 5 hours of obesity-related education. 14/20 (70%) of the support staff reported no prior education or training about obesity. Of responses reflecting weight stigma, only three clinicians reported negative reactions toward the appearance, or discomfort during examination, of a patient with obesity, or a perception of laziness, compared with normal weight individuals. A higher proportion 4/20 (20%) of support staff reported responses indicating negative attitudes for people with obesity compared with normal weight individuals.

Survey responses reflected evidence of weight stigma in both dental professionals and support staff. Professional development targeting weight stigma reduction in the dental setting is needed for both clinicians and support staff.