UK dietitians exhibit explicit and implicit weight bias towards people living with obesity, according to new research.
Academics surveyed 402 dietitians aged between 20 and 70 in 2022 to examine weight stigma in practicing dietitians and the experience of weight stigma among dietitians, both towards themselves and others.
In total 51% of the respondents reported experiencing weight stigma before they became registered dietitians and 59.7% said they had experienced weight stigma after they became registered dietitians.
- Healthy diet with less sugar linked to younger biological age
- Processed foods make up most of a teenager’s diet
- How to Lose Weight and Keep It Off
More than a fifth of dietitians – 21.1% – said they felt that weight influenced their ability as a dietitian.
The study was carried out by academics from the Centre for Obesity Research at University College London and the University of Leeds.
The authors said: “Despite the already established and increasing evidence of the complexity of obesity, many people, including healthcare professionals, believe weight is solely within an individual’s control, and subsequently, that weight management is an individual’s personal responsibility.
“This belief, and thus, attribution of responsibility, can result in negative judgements towards people living with obesity based solely on their body weight where stereotypes such as laziness, gluttonous and weak-willed are directed at people perceived as living with overweight or obesity.”
The study said extensive literature had highlighted that experiences of weight stigma have a detrimental impact on both physical and mental health as well as engagement in health-related behaviours.
- BMR Calculator
- Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator
- Digital tool for specialist weight management services shows promising results
The authors concluded: “There is clearly a need to address the issues of weight stigma within the dietetic profession and aim to actively reduce it.
“Though it does appear that the degree of weight stigma, both implicit and explicit, is lower than reported among the general population and in other research on dietitians, it is still concerning that negative attitudes and beliefs exist in healthcare, and particularly among those who are meant to be helping and supporting patients living with a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2.”
Charlotte Summers, Operations Director at Gro Health, providers of specialist weight management services commented: “The findings from this study highlight a critical issue within the dietetic profession that cannot be ignored. As healthcare providers, it is our duty to approach each individual with empathy and a deep understanding of the complex factors that contribute to obesity.
“The presence of weight stigma among dietitians, who are on the front lines of supporting individuals on their health journeys, is deeply concerning.
“We are committed to fostering a culture of compassion and evidence-based care.
“These results serve as a reminder of the importance of continuous education and self-reflection within our field to ensure that all patients receive the respect and support they deserve, free from judgment or bias.”
Read the full study in Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics
