Weight bias in healthcare refers to negative attitudes, stereotypes, or discrimination toward individuals with obesity. This bias can affect the quality of care, patient-provider relationships, and health outcomes.Impact on Care: Patients with obesity may receive less preventive care, shorter consultations, or dismissive treatment.Psychological Effects: Stigma can lead to stress, low self-esteem, and avoidance of medical care.Healthcare Provider Bias: Implicit or explicit bias may influence diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and patient communication.Health Consequences: Weight bias contributes to delayed care, poorer management of chronic conditions, and worsening health outcomes.Training healthcare providers in empathy, cultural competence, and obesity science.Promoting patient-centered communication and non-stigmatizing language.Implementing institutional policies to prevent discrimination and improve care accessibility.Addressing weight bias is essential to ensure equitable, respectful, and effective healthcare for individuals with obesity.
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