Obesity

Question 1

is weight stigma different to other forms of stigma?

Answer 1

• affects many people, as opposed to minority groups
• eating is required for survival, so there are multiple, repeated daily opportunities for experiencing weight stigma
• family and friends can be a common source of weight stigma
• the only form of stigma that is still widely acceptable

Question 2

impact of weight bias and stigma

Answer 2

• poor body image and body dissatisfaction
• low self esteem
• feelings of worthlessness
• suicidal thoughts
• depression, anxiety
• maladaptive eating patterns
• avoidance of physical activities
• avoidance of healthcare

Question 3

eating and physical activity behaviors related to stress and weight stigma

Answer 3

• binge eating
• increased calorie consumptions
• lower exercise motivation
• less physical activity

Question 4

physiological reactivity related to stress and weight stigma

Answer 4

• increased levels of cortisol, C-reactive protein, A1C
• elevated blood pressure

Question 5

how weight stigma affects healthcare services

Answer 5

• poorer treatment adherence
• less trust of health providers
• avoidance of follow-up care
• delay in preventative health screening
• poor communication

Question 6

psychological health/distress related to weight gain

Answer 6

• depression
• anxiety
• low self esteem
• poor body image
• substance abuse
• suicidality

Question 7

what can we do

Answer 7

• explore our own beliefs and weight bias
• understand the complex genetics and biology of obesity
• focus on health gains rather than weight loss
• be respectful and sensitive when communicating

Question 8

examples of chronic diseases

Answer 8

• hypertension
• asthma
• COPD
• type 2 diabetes
• arthritis
• heart failure

Question 9

obesity

Answer 9

excess of dysfunctional adiposity that impairs health

Question 10

why is weight loss not the focus of obesity management

Answer 10

• unrealistic weight loss targets may set patients up for disappointment
• goal should be focused on improving health and well being

Question 11

why might what worked to lose weight at the start not work a few months down the line

Answer 11

losing weight changes metabolism

Question 12

what are the five As framework

Answer 12

ask
advise
assess
assist
arrange

Question 13

what does the first A - ask mean

Answer 13

ask permission to talk about weight,
ask permission to record height, weight and calculate BMI

Question 14

what does the seconds A - advise mean

Answer 14

listen and understand the life circumstances of the person and share info on the health behaviors linked to weight if appropriate

Question 15

what does the third A - assess mean

Answer 15

explore the patient’s willingness and confidence to consider options for support

Question 16

what does the fourth a - assist mean

Answer 16

make a health plan or signpost to additional local supports

Question 17

what does the fifth A - arrange mean

Answer 17

suggest a follow-up appointment

Question 18

a patient centered approach means;

Answer 18

• always asking for permission before giving info
• actively listening to the life circumstances, needs and preferences of patients
• being empathic, respectful, non-judgmental and compassionate