To help address the obesity crisis and stigma towards weight in the United States, leading consumers, ageing and public health groups have revealed the nation’s first Obesity Bill of Rights
The Obesity Bill of Rights aims to ensure that individuals with obesity receive better care, without bias or discrimination.
With obesity rates continuing to rise, affecting approximately 108 million adults in the U.S., many remain undiagnosed and untreated.
Effective care for those with obesity
Although obesity is recognised as a serious chronic disease by the American Medical Association a decade ago, only a fraction of those eligible for treatment receive it.
This lack of effective care contributes to severe health consequences, including a rise in obesity-related diseases and economic costs estimated at $1.72 trillion annually.
The Obesity Bill of Rights establishes eight essential rights for individuals with obesity, focusing on the need for accurate information, respectful treatment, and access to qualified healthcare providers. These rights include the right to person-centred care tailored to individual health goals, as well as coverage for a full range of treatment options.
Right2ObesityCare
To guide these changes, the National Consumers League (NCL) and the National Council on Aging (NCOA) have launched a grassroots movement called Right2ObesityCare. This plan will mobilise support from various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, community leaders, and individuals affected by obesity. Their goal is to ensure that the rights outlined in the bill are integrated into medical practices across the country.
Quality obesity care
The movement will engage communities through town halls, workshops, and advocacy forums, aiming for full implementation of the Obesity Bill of Rights by the end of 2029. Plans also include developing model legislation to help states adopt these rights into their laws.
This historic initiative is rooted in the experiences shared by over 250 community members during town hall meetings held last year, where participants highlighted the barriers they face in accessing quality obesity care.
The feedback gathered from these sessions has informed the final document, which has been praised by numerous obesity and public health organisations.
The Obesity Bill of Rights represents a crucial step toward addressing the stigma and barriers millions face
By promoting equitable treatment and comprehensive care for individuals with obesity, the Obesity Bill of Rights represents a crucial step toward addressing the stigma and barriers that have hindered effective treatment for a while.
