The Association for the Study of Obesity (ASO) is calling for greater awareness of the harmful effects of stigma in public discussions about obesity, alongside a commitment to comprehensive, evidence-based care.
Stigmatising language and imagery in the media and other public settings are not only derogatory but can have lasting negative impacts on people living with overweight or obesity. ASO urges journalists, policymakers, and all those communicating about obesity to use non-stigmatising, respectful language and avoid images that perpetuate stereotypes.
“To prevent negative impacts and discrimination towards people living with overweight or obesity, images in the media should not be derogatory and should be non-stigmatising. Similarly, the narrative of blame and individual responsibility is highly stigmatising and shows we have a long way to go to educate policymakers on the causes of obesity.”
This call to action comes at a time of heightened interest in obesity care, including increased media attention on new weight-loss drugs. While this interest is welcome, ASO emphasises that discussions must address the full range of obesity care, including behaviour, pharmacology, and surgery, to ensure sustainable improvements in health outcomes.
ASO will continue working with healthcare professionals, researchers, and the media to promote respectful, evidence-led communication and a systems-based approach to prevention and treatment.
