Why the Words "Obese" and "Obesity" Are Harmful, and What We Can Do Instead
In conversations about health, especially public health, the terms "obese" and "obesity" are thrown around frequently. They appear in medical charts, government reports, and media headlines. But what if these words, intended to describe a health status, are actually doing more harm than good?
The terms "obese" and "obesity" are rooted in the Body Mass Index (BMI), a simple calculation of weight relative to height. Despite being widely used, BMI was never intended as a diagnostic tool. It fails to consider muscle mass, genetics, lifestyle, or overall health. More importantly, labeling someone as “obese” often reduces their identity to a number, fueling shame, stigma, and bias rather than promoting health.
Language Matters
Words carry power. The term "obese" is often used as a clinical label, but in practice, it’s a word that many people experience as dehumanizing. Studies show that patients labeled "obese" are more likely to feel judged, shamed, and dismissed by healthcare providers. This stigma can lead to serious consequences: people in larger bodies often avoid medical care altogether for fear of being treated poorly, misdiagnosed, or ignored.
When a person hears they are “obese,” they are more likely to internalize feelings of failure and unworthiness—feelings that can trigger disordered eating, depression, and anxiety. Instead of fostering a path to better health, the language used around weight often builds walls between patients and providers.
What Is Weight-Neutral Care?
Weight-neutral care shifts the focus away from weight as a primary health indicator. Instead of assuming that a higher weight automatically signals poor health, weight-neutral providers focus on behaviors; like nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management, that can improve health outcomes regardless of body size.
This approach is inclusive, compassionate, and evidence-informed. It recognizes that people can pursue health and well-being without being told to shrink their bodies. In weight-neutral care, the goal is not weight loss, it’s better health, however that looks for the individual.
The Benefits of a Weight-Neutral Approach
Reduced Stigma: By removing weight as a moral or medical failing, patients feel seen and respected. This builds trust and strengthens the patient-provider relationship.
Improved Access to Care: When people know they won’t be judged for their body size, they are more likely to seek preventative care, show up for appointments, and engage in honest discussions about their health.
Better Health Outcomes: Weight-neutral approaches have been linked to improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, eating habits, and physical activity; without the psychological harm that often accompanies weight-focused interventions.
Support for Mental Health: When health is measured by how people feel and function, rather than a number on a scale, it promotes sustainable, life-enhancing choices that honor both physical and emotional well-being.
Moving Forward
Shifting our language and mindset around weight is not just about semantics; it’s about creating a healthcare system that supports all bodies with dignity and respect. Replacing terms like “obese” with weight-inclusive, person-centered care isn’t political correctness; it’s evidence-based compassion. When we let go of harmful labels, we make space for better health…on every level!
