The Obesity Action Coalition: Giving Voice to People Living with Obesity

Abstract

Obesity is well-documented to be a highly stigmatized disease complicated by a high prevalence of both explicit and implicit weight bias. This bias leads to discrimination in education, healthcare, employment, and social interactions -- often with little recourse or protection for the people affected. Public policies to address obesity have historically placed an implicitly low value on the unmet needs of people with obesity. Resources were instead disproportionately directed into prevention efforts. Until recently, options and resources for clinical care of people with obesity have been limited. Regulatory authorities set unreasonably high bars for innovative treatments that stifled innovation for almost a decade. Blunt assessments from policymakers presented to leaders in obesity medicine and bariatric surgery made it plain that without a strong voice for people living with obesity, these conditions would not change. In response to this situation, the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) was incorporated in 2005 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to elevate and empower people affected by obesity though education, advocacy, and support. The OAC has grown to nearly 50000 members, distributed more than 1.5 million pieces of educational materials, confronted weight bias, forged advocacy partnerships, and successfully advocated for more innovation in obesity treatment options. Through its annual meeting, OAC brings together more than 500 people to learn, provide mutual support, and develop advocates. The presentation will review key milestones and factors for a successful advocacy, education, and support organization serving people living with obesity.