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The Burden from Within-An Indian Pilot Study on Weight Bias Internalization
Aparna Govil Bhasker1,2, Shamika Girkar3, Vishakha Jain4
1MetaHeal- Laparoscopy and Bariatric Surgery Center, Mumbai, India. draparnagovil@gmail.com.
Obesity Surgery
|November 18, 2025
Summary
Internalized weight bias is prevalent in Indian adults with obesity seeking bariatric surgery, negatively impacting mental health and weight management. This study highlights the need for interventions to address this bias and improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Internalized weight bias is linked to adverse mental health outcomes, including depression and low self-esteem.
- It is also associated with poorer weight management, reduced physical activity, and weight regain after surgery.
- While studied in Western populations, data on internalized weight bias in India is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of internalized weight bias among individuals with obesity in India.
- To assess this bias in patients seeking consultation for metabolic and bariatric surgery.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 142 participants at a metabolic and bariatric clinic.
- The Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS) was used to measure internalized weight bias.
- Correlations between WBIS scores, Body Mass Index (BMI), and age were analyzed.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of internalized weight bias was observed, with 71.1% of participants scoring above the neutral threshold.
- Mean WBIS score was 4.7 ± 1.2, indicating widespread dissatisfaction with body weight and emotional distress.
- Younger age and higher BMI were associated with greater internalized weight bias.
Conclusions:
- This study is the first in India to report a high burden of internalized weight bias in individuals with obesity seeking bariatric surgery.
- Findings emphasize the necessity of interventions targeting internalized bias and stigma.
- Addressing these issues can improve psychological well-being and encourage health-seeking behaviors in this population.
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