The obesity rate in the United States has increased from 12% in 1991 to 42% in 2022. “We know that women living with obesity are more likely to develop serious health problems and other diseases,” explained Beth Battaglino, RN -C, CEO of HealthyWomen. “There is also a high level of shame and stigma associated with the disease, and even a lack of awareness that obesity is a disease.”
For Black women, who have the highest rates of obesity in the United States, dispelling stigma and raising awareness is particularly important. “Too often, the underlying causes of obesity are not fully examined when it comes to Black women,” said Linda Goler Blount, MPH, president and CEO of the 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 raises awareness about obesity as a disease and national health crisis, without stigma, judgment or prejudice. Both partners offer personalized educational and lifestyle content and resources, along with interactive tools, podcasts and stories from real women about the physical and emotional effects of obesity.
The program is supported by Novo Nordisk.
Read more about our
initiative and explore the content below.
Featured content
Real women, real stories
Videos and podcasts
Articles
Articles in Spanish
Obesity Resource List
Obesity is a disease characterized by having excess fat that causes health risks. Genetic, environmental and metabolic factors cause obesity, which is a complicated disease and can be difficult to control through nutrition and exercise alone. For more information, be sure to contact your healthcare provider and visit the links provided below.
