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.
Our "Reclaim Your Wellness" webinar series will gather renowned experts to elevate the conversation around underlying causes of obesity and treatments, while educating and empowering women across diverse communities.
The first webinar, "Let's Talk Health, Weight and Black Women," scheduled for February 19 from 1-2 p.m. EST, will feature special guest Loni Love, Emmy- and NAACP Image Award-winning talk show host, actress and author. Moderated by Lesli Foster, WUSA9 Emmy Award-winning weeknight anchor, panelists include:
• Sharon Hawks, MS, RDN, LDN, CDES, Founder and Director, The Nutrition and Diabetes Education Center, BWHI Board Member
• Fatima Cody Stanford, M.D., obesity medicine physician, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School
• Chef G. Garvin, acclaimed chef, author, James Beard nominee, TV personality and entrepreneur
• Courtney Snowden, founder, #Black Girl Magic: The Peloton Edition
• Beth Battaglino, RN, CEO, HealthyWomen
Sign up now to Reclaim Your Wellness. https://www.reclaimyourwellness.org/rsvp