Why Obesity Care Week Matters for Black Women

From March 2nd-6th, the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is highlighting the importance of Obesity Care Week. World Obesity Day is also on March 4th. This year’s theme for the National Awareness Week is “I Commit to Care,” which focuses on ensuring every person affected by obesity has access to evidence-based, respectful, and compassionate care, free from stigma and bias. This is critical because Black women represent the largest population living with this chronic condition. The Journal of the American Medical Association reports that 56.9% of non-Hispanic Black females have obesity.

The Realities Behind the Stats

We need to understand that there are systemic, environmental, and economic reasons that contribute to these statistics. Tracy Zvenyach, PhD, MS, RN, and OAC Director of Policy Strategy and Alliances, says, “According to recent CDC data, Black women have the highest rates of obesity in the United States — above that of any other group. This is not a reflection of personal failure; it is a reflection of inequities in access to quality healthcare, safe environments, nutritious foods, economic opportunity, and evidence-based treatment.”

The Mental Impact of Weight Stigma

A study by the American Psychological Association found that we face stigma within our families, in educational settings, workplace environments, and in healthcare. “Participants described weight stigma as both external and internal experiences, leading to dissatisfaction with their bodies but also explaining their size and shape based on life circumstances, such as aging, maternity, and health factors.”

Those who took part in the study used one of three coping strategies to handle being subjected to weight stigma: avoidance, withdrawal, and showing resilience. “Weight stigma has isolating effects for Black women and requires culturally sensitive approaches to address the unique, intersectional needs of Black women.”

Why “I Commit to Care” is So Essential

When it comes to health, Black women with obesity may avoid doctor visits, preventative, and necessary care because they’ve had negative experiences. According to an article in the journal Obesity, effective communication between an HCP and his or her patient is vital.

“According to patients’ reports of their HCPs’ behavior, African American people, particularly those with obesity, were less likely to report that their providers explained things well or spent enough time with them, compared with White people.”

However, the researchers noted that when patients visited an HCP of the same race/ethnicity, they received specific advice. “People with obesity with a provider of the same race/ethnicity were more likely to report receiving diet advice from their provider than those with differing race/ethnicity.”

If you are challenged in finding a provider who looks like you, search for a culturally competent provider who demonstrates relatability instead. These doctors can also give us confidence about our care.

The OAC is encouraging its supporters to sign a pledge that supports its efforts to:

• Raising awareness about the challenges of obesity as a chronic disease.
• Advocating for improved policies that expand access to effective, evidence-based care.
• Treating everyone with respect and compassion, free from stigma or bias.
• Encouraging meaningful conversations about the importance of health and well-being.

Through initiatives such as these we can find the resources we need to assist us in treating this chronic condition that impacts so many of us.

Resources

Journal of the American Medical Association

The American Psychological Association

Obesity, a Research Journal