Classification of Obesity Based on Weight History: Perceptions of People With Obesity

Two Brazilian medical societies have proposed a new classification of obesity based on the maximum weight attained in an individual's lifetime, to be used in the clinical evaluation of individuals undergoing obesity treatment. This classification, which applies to adults aged 18 to 65 years, categorises people with obesity (PwO) who lose a certain percentage of their weight as having either 'reduced' or 'controlled' obesity. While the classification aims to improve patient care, there is limited data on PwO perceptions. To explore this, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 500 PwO, including an explanation and clinical case of the new classification. The survey revealed that 64% of participants had never been asked by a healthcare professional (HCP) about their maximum weight. After knowing the new classification, 82% found it useful for changing perceptions about obesity treatment; 66% felt it would encourage them to seek treatment; 63% believed it would help with treatment maintenance; and 74% indicated they would feel better achieving 'controlled obesity,' even if the weight loss fell short of their goals. A majority agreed that the classification could help establish realistic goals (77%) and reduce biases from HCPs (69%). Overall, PwO perceived the classification as beneficial for encouraging treatment and reducing stigma.