The rate of obesity in the United States has risen from 12% in 1991 to 33.9% today. "We know women with obesity have a higher chance of developing serious health conditions and diseases, including being at a higher risk for COVID-19," explains HealthyWomen CEO Beth Battaglino, RN-C. "We also know there is a high level of shame and stigma associated with people living with obesity."
"So often, the underlying causes of obesity are not fully examined when it comes to Black women," states Linda Goler Blount, MPH, president and CEO of Black Women's Health Imperative. "Our partnership provides both organizations with a platform to engage all women, healthcare providers and policymakers to understand and address the fundamental relationship between socially and racially mediated stress, obesity and disease."
The multifaceted "Reclaim Your Wellness" campaign will raise awareness of obesity as a disease and national health crisis, without stigma, judgment and bias. Both partners will deliver tailored educational and lifestyle content and resources, along with interactive tools, podcasts and stories from real women on the physical and emotional effects of obesity.
The program is funded by Novo Nordisk.
Read more about our initiative and explore the content below.
Webinar: "What's Next When Dieting and Exercise Just Aren't Enough?" Click here to watch it now.
Webinar: "Let's Talk Health, Weight and Black Women"? Click here to watch it now.
The Great Girlfriends are out with a new podcast episode featuring Dr. Fatima Stanford! In this episode, she breaks down the facts and dismisses the myths about obesity.
Eliminating the Obesity Bias in Health Care
Caring properly for people with obesity starts with not judging them
Experiencing mental health challenges and chronic stress can lead to significant weight gain.
Environmental and Societal Factors, Not Just Diet and Exercise, Contribute to Obesity
Healthcare providers need to look at more than what's on the plate to understand obesity
What You Need to Know About Obesity
If you or a loved one has obesity, here are some facts to help you understand this common disease
Obesity Resource List
Obesity is a disease characterized by having excess fat that causes health risks. Genetic, environmental, and metabolic factors cause obesity, which is a complicated disease and can be difficult to control through nutrition and exercise alone. For more information, be sure to contact your healthcare provider and visit the links provided below.
HealthyWomen Resources
- Reclaim Your Wellness
- Environmental and Societal Factors, Not Just Diet and Exercise, Contribute to Obesity
- The Hidden Causes of Obesity
- Eliminating the Obesity Bias in Health Care
- What You Need to Know About Obesity
- What is obesity?
Additional Resources