The Obesity Epidemic and Women's Health

The Obesity Epidemic and Women’s Health

Will the escalating rate of obesity in our society continue to provide us with an obstacle or can it be an opportunity when addressing women’s health issues? I would argue that a woman’s weight can be a significant barrier to health promotion efforts and disease management if she and her health care team do not come to terms with the emotional aspect and meaning of being heavy. Evidence exists to inform practice that women who are overweight and sensitive to their size are less likely to seek health promotion counseling or visit a physician for a wellness examination. What have we learned in the past decade to facilitate meaningful interactions between health care professionals and women seeking care especially those with weight issues.