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Brown A, Flint SW. 'My words would have more weight': exploring weight stigma in UK dietetic practice and dietitian's lived experiences of weight stigma. J Hum Nutr Diet 2024; 37:1143-1158. [PMID: 39110154 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.13337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Weight stigma is pervasive within healthcare and negatively impacts both access to care and the patient-practitioner relationship. There is limited evidence on weight stigma among registered dietitians, particularly in the United Kingdom, though data show weight-related prejudice towards people living with obesity. The aim of this study was to examine both explicit and implicit weight stigma in practicing dietitians in the United Kingdom, as well as the lived experience of weight stigma among dietitians, both towards themselves and towards others. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey was disseminated between February and May 2022 using snowball sampling. Inclusion criteria were that participants were UK registered dietitians aged 20-70 years. RESULTS Four hundred and two dietitians responded to the survey (female [94.1%], mean age 40.2 years [standard deviation (SD) 10.7]; White ethnicity [90%]; median 12 years [interquartile range (IQR) 6, 22] within dietetic practice). Mean self-reported body mass index was 25.1 kg/m² (SD 8.7). Most dietitians reported experiencing weight stigma prior to (51%) and postregistration (59.7%), whereas nearly a quarter (21.1%) felt that weight influenced their ability as a dietitian. Weight stigma was experienced across the weight spectrum. Overall participants reported explicit weight bias attitudes, moderate beliefs that obesity is controllable and implicit antifat bias. Within open-ended responses, dietitians reported three key themes related to their personal experiences of weight stigma: (1) experiences of stigma in dietetic practice, (2) impact of weight stigma and (3) perception of weight, appearance and job. CONCLUSION This study shows that UK dietitians exhibit both explicit and implicit weight bias towards people living with obesity. Dietitians reported experiencing weight stigma, which impacted their career-related decisions and their perception of their own ability to perform as dietitians. The study highlights the need to address weight stigma and its implications within the dietetic profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Brown
- Centre for Obesity Research, University College London, London, UK
- Bariatric Centre for Weight Management and Metabolic Surgery, University College London Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
- National Institute of Health Research, London, UK
| | - Stuart W Flint
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Scaled Insights, Nexus, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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M Y, Trivedi N, Makwana N, Krishna PHPP, D K. Prevalence of normal weight obesity and its cardiometabolic implications among government doctors in Gujarat, India: a cross-sectional study. Clin Diabetes Endocrinol 2024; 10:28. [PMID: 39317936 PMCID: PMC11423495 DOI: 10.1186/s40842-024-00189-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is rising globally. Normal weight obesity (NWO) and normal weight central obesity (NWCO) despite normal BMI pose added metabolic risks. Limited data on these phenotypes among Indian doctors merits investigation. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of overall obesity, NWO, NWCO, and their associations with cardiometabolic risks among doctors in Gujarat, India. METHODS It's a Cross-sectional study among 490 doctors aged 20-60 years at a tertiary hospital. Anthropometry, blood pressure, fasting glucose, and lipids were assessed. NWO was defined as a BMI of 18.5-24.9 kg/m2 with a high body fat percentage. NWCO as normal BMI and increased waist circumference. Body composition was assessed using an Omron body composition analyzer. RESULTS The prevalence of overall obesity was 101 (20%), NWO 239 (48.7%), and NWCO 210 (42.8%). Mean BMI, blood pressure, glucose, and LDL increased from normal weight to NWO/NWCO groups (p < 0.05). NWO and NWCO had significantly higher odds of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and high fasting blood sugar compared to non-obese after adjusting for confounders. CONCLUSION The high burden of overall obesity, NWO, and NWCO among doctors highlights the need for lifestyle interventions to mitigate long-term cardiometabolic disease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogesh M
- Department of Community Medicine, Shri M P Shah Government Medical College, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India.
| | - Nidhi Trivedi
- Department of Community Medicine Jamnagar, Shri M P Shah Govt medical college, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Naresh Makwana
- Department of Community Medicine Jamnagar, Shri M P Shah Govt medical college, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Kadalarasu D
- Department of Community Medicine, Shri M P Shah Government Medical College, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India
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Sandsaeter HL, Eik-Nes TT, Getz LO, Magnussen EB, Rich-Edwards JW, Horn J. Navigating weight, risk and lifestyle conversations in maternity care: a qualitative study among pregnant women with obesity. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:552. [PMID: 39179964 PMCID: PMC11344406 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06751-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant women with obesity face heightened focus on weight during pregnancy due to greater risk of medical complications. Closer follow-up in maternety care may contribute to reduce risk and promote health in these women. The aim of this study was to gain a deeper insight in how pregnant women with obesity experience encounters with healthcare providers in maternity care. How is the received maternity care affected by their weight, and how do they describe the way healthcare providers express attitudes towards obesity in pregnancy? METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with 14 women in Trøndelag county in Norway with pre-pregnancy BMI of ≥ 30 kg/m2, between 3 and 12 months postpartum. The study sample was strategic regarding age, relationship status, education level, obesity class, and parity. Themes were developed using reflexive thematic analysis. The analysis was informed by contextual information from a prior study, describing the same participants' weight history from childhood to motherhood along with their perceptions of childhood quality. RESULTS This study comprised of an overarching theme supported by three main themes. The overarching theme, Being pregnant with a high BMI: a vulnerable condition, reflected the challenge of entering maternity care with obesity, especially for women unprepared to be seen as "outside the norm". Women who had grown up with body criticism and childhood bullying were more prepared to have their weight addressed in maternity care. The first theme, Loaded conversations: a balancing act, emphasizes how pregnant women with a history of body criticism or obesity-related otherness proactively protect their integrity against weight bias, stigma and shame. The women also described how some healthcare providers balance or avoid weight and risk conversations for the same reasons. Dehumanization: an unintended drawback of standardized care makes apparent the pitfalls of prioritizing standardization over person-centered care. Finally, the third theme, The ambivalence of discussing weight and lifestyle, represent women's underlying ambivalence towards current weight practices in maternity care. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that standardized weight and risk monitoring, along with lifestyle guidance in maternity care, can place the pregnant women with obesity in a vulnerable position, contrasting with the emotionally supportive care that women with obesity report needing. Learning from these women's experiences and their urge for an unloaded communication to protect their integrity highlights the importance of focusing on patient-centered practices instead of standardized care to create a safe space for health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi L Sandsaeter
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Levanger Hospital, Nord-Trøndelag Hospital Trust, Levanger, Norway.
| | - Trine Tetlie Eik-Nes
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Stjørdal Community Mental Health Centre, Levanger Hospital, Levanger, Norway
| | - Linn Okkenhaug Getz
- Research Unit for General Practice, Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Elisabeth Balstad Magnussen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olav's University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Janet W Rich-Edwards
- Division of Women's Health and Connors Center for Women's Health and Gender Biology, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julie Horn
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Levanger Hospital, Nord-Trøndelag Hospital Trust, Levanger, Norway
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Hayotte M, Maïano C, De Toni F, d'Arripe-Longueville F. Does a person's body size and the application type influence healthcare students' perceptions of technologies to promote physical activity? Findings from a cross-sectional study. NURSE EDUCATION TODAY 2024; 139:106236. [PMID: 38735096 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2024.106236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent evidence suggests that weight bias may be pervasive, even among health professionals specialized in obesity, including healthcare students. Technology-based physical activity interventions are promising for people with obesity, specifically when they are theory-driven (e.g., autonomy-supportive as described by self-determination theory). However, perceptions of these technologies have been understudied among healthcare students and professionals. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of a person's body size based on body mass index and technology type on healthcare students' perceptions. DESIGN This is a cross-sectional, experimental study. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS Five hundred and two healthcare students (360 females, 142 males; mean age = 23.3, SD = 5.0) were randomly exposed to one of four scenarios that manipulated a hypothetical person's body mass index (22 kg/m2 vs. 42 kg/m2) and a technology-based physical activity type based on self-determination theory (autonomy-supportive app vs. controlling app). They then completed measures of their perceptions of the person's app acceptability and self-efficacy and of their intention to recommend the app. Multivariate and univariate analyses of covariance were performed. RESULTS Students exposed to the larger-bodied people (42 kg/m2) versus the smaller-bodied people (22 kg/m2) perceived a lower level of person's app acceptability (i.e., higher social influence and less enjoyment in using the app), as well as a lower level of self-efficacy to use the technology. Students exposed to the controlling app were more likely to recommend it compared to those exposed to the autonomy-supportive app. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that healthcare students' attitudes may be negatively influenced by explicit weight bias. Also, in contrast to self-determination theory precepts, a controlling app may be more frequently recommended. Further study of healthcare students' implicit attitudes toward technology is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christophe Maïano
- Laboratoire de Cyberpsychologie, Département de Psychoéducation et de Psychologie, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Saint-Jérôme, 5 rue Saint Joseph, Saint-Jérôme J7Z OB7, Québec, Canada.
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Nilsen P, Sundemo D, Heintz F, Neher M, Nygren J, Svedberg P, Petersson L. Towards evidence-based practice 2.0: leveraging artificial intelligence in healthcare. FRONTIERS IN HEALTH SERVICES 2024; 4:1368030. [PMID: 38919828 PMCID: PMC11196845 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2024.1368030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Background Evidence-based practice (EBP) involves making clinical decisions based on three sources of information: evidence, clinical experience and patient preferences. Despite popularization of EBP, research has shown that there are many barriers to achieving the goals of the EBP model. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has been proposed as a means to improve clinical decision-making. The aim of this paper was to pinpoint key challenges pertaining to the three pillars of EBP and to investigate the potential of AI in surmounting these challenges and contributing to a more evidence-based healthcare practice. We conducted a selective review of the literature on EBP and the integration of AI in healthcare to achieve this. Challenges with the three components of EBP Clinical decision-making in line with the EBP model presents several challenges. The availability and existence of robust evidence sometimes pose limitations due to slow generation and dissemination processes, as well as the scarcity of high-quality evidence. Direct application of evidence is not always viable because studies often involve patient groups distinct from those encountered in routine healthcare. Clinicians need to rely on their clinical experience to interpret the relevance of evidence and contextualize it within the unique needs of their patients. Moreover, clinical decision-making might be influenced by cognitive and implicit biases. Achieving patient involvement and shared decision-making between clinicians and patients remains challenging in routine healthcare practice due to factors such as low levels of health literacy among patients and their reluctance to actively participate, barriers rooted in clinicians' attitudes, scepticism towards patient knowledge and ineffective communication strategies, busy healthcare environments and limited resources. AI assistance for the three components of EBP AI presents a promising solution to address several challenges inherent in the research process, from conducting studies, generating evidence, synthesizing findings, and disseminating crucial information to clinicians to implementing these findings into routine practice. AI systems have a distinct advantage over human clinicians in processing specific types of data and information. The use of AI has shown great promise in areas such as image analysis. AI presents promising avenues to enhance patient engagement by saving time for clinicians and has the potential to increase patient autonomy although there is a lack of research on this issue. Conclusion This review underscores AI's potential to augment evidence-based healthcare practices, potentially marking the emergence of EBP 2.0. However, there are also uncertainties regarding how AI will contribute to a more evidence-based healthcare. Hence, empirical research is essential to validate and substantiate various aspects of AI use in healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Nilsen
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - David Sundemo
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Lerum Närhälsan Primary Healthcare Center, Lerum, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Heintz
- Department of Computer and Information Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Margit Neher
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Jens Nygren
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Petra Svedberg
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Lena Petersson
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
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Nagpal TS, Angrish K, Bonisteel E, Puhl RM, Ferraro ZM, Malkani NM, LeJour C, Adamo KB. 'It's not me, it's them' - a report describing the weight-related attitudes towards obesity in pregnancy among maternal healthcare providers. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:404. [PMID: 38831416 PMCID: PMC11149224 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06591-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occurrences of weight stigma have been documented in prenatal clinical settings from the perspective of pregnant patients, however little is known from the viewpoint of healthcare providers themselves. Reported experiences of weight stigma caused by maternal healthcare providers may be due to negative attitudes towards obesity in pregnancy and a lack of obesity specific education. The objective of this study was to assess weight-related attitudes and assumptions towards obesity in pregnancy among maternal healthcare providers in order to inform future interventions to mitigate weight stigma in prenatal clinical settings. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was administered online for maternal healthcare providers in Canada that assessed weight-related attitudes and assumptions towards lifestyle behaviours in pregnancy for patients who have obesity. Participants indicated their level of agreement on a 5-point likert scale, and mean scores were calculated with higher scores indicating poorer attitudes. Participants reported whether they had observed weight stigma occur in clinical settings. Finally, participants were asked whether or not they had received obesity-specific training, and attitude scores were compared between the two groups. RESULTS Seventy-two maternal healthcare providers (midwives, OBGYNs, residents, perinatal nurses, and family physicians) completed the survey, and 79.2% indicated that they had observed pregnant patients with obesity experience weight stigma in a clinical setting. Those who had obesity training perceived that their peers had poorer attitudes (3.7 ± 0.9) than those without training (3.1 ± 0.7; t(70) = 2.23, p = 0.029, Cohen's d = 0.86). CONCLUSIONS Weight stigma occurs in prenatal clinical environments, and this was confirmed by maternal healthcare providers themselves. These findings support advocacy efforts to integrate weight stigma related content and mitigation strategies in medical education for health professionals, including maternal healthcare providers. Future work should include prospective examination of weight related attitudes among maternal healthcare providers and implications of obesity specific education, including strategies on mitigating weight stigma in the delivery of prenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taniya S Nagpal
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, 116 St & 85 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2R3, Canada.
- Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Canada.
| | - Kirina Angrish
- Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Canada
| | - Emily Bonisteel
- Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Canada
| | - Rebecca M Puhl
- Department of Human Development & Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | | | - Niyati M Malkani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | | | - Kristi B Adamo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Baska A, Świder K, Zgliczyński WS, Kłoda K, Mastalerz-Migas A, Babicki M. Is Obesity a Cause for Shame? Weight Bias and Stigma among Physicians, Dietitians, and Other Healthcare Professionals in Poland-A Cross-Sectional Study. Nutrients 2024; 16:999. [PMID: 38613032 PMCID: PMC11013468 DOI: 10.3390/nu16070999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Weight bias and weight stigma pose significant challenges in healthcare, particularly affecting obesity management practices and patient care quality. Our study evaluates their prevalence and impact among healthcare professionals in Poland. Using the Fat Phobia Scale and custom questions, we surveyed 686 professionals via Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI). Results reveal a moderate level of explicit weight bias (mean score: 3.60 ± 0.57), with significant variations across professional groups: physicians (3.70 ± 0.48), dietitians (3.51 ± 0.48), and others (3.44 ± 0.77). Common feelings towards individuals with obesity include willingness to help (57.0%) and compassion (37.8%), yet 29.9% perceive obesity as shameful. The results also vary depending on the respondent's sex or BMI. These findings underscore the need for evidence-based interventions to mitigate weight stigma and enhance understanding of obesity among healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Baska
- Department of Lifestyle Medicine, School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland;
- Polish Society of Lifestyle Medicine, 00-382 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Wojciech Stefan Zgliczyński
- Department of Lifestyle Medicine, School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-813 Warsaw, Poland;
- Polish Society of Lifestyle Medicine, 00-382 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Kłoda
- MEDFIT Karolina Kłoda, 70-240 Szczecin, Poland;
- Scientific Section of the Polish Society of Family Medicine, 51-141 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.M.-M.); (M.B.)
| | - Agnieszka Mastalerz-Migas
- Scientific Section of the Polish Society of Family Medicine, 51-141 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.M.-M.); (M.B.)
- Department of Family Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Mateusz Babicki
- Scientific Section of the Polish Society of Family Medicine, 51-141 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.M.-M.); (M.B.)
- Department of Family Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
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Härgestam M, Lindgren L, Jacobsson M. Can equity in care be achieved for stigmatized patients? Discourses of ideological dilemmas in perioperative care. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:210. [PMID: 38360678 PMCID: PMC10870466 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10580-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the perioperative care of individuals with obesity, it is imperative to consider the presence of risk factors that may predispose them to complications. Providing optimal care in such cases proves to be a multifaceted challenge, significantly distinct from the care required for non-obese patients. However, patients with morbidities regarded as self-inflicted, such as obesity, described feelings of being judged and discriminated in healthcare. At the same time, healthcare personnel express difficulties in acting in an appropriate and non-insulting way. In this study, the aim was to analyse how registered nurse anaesthetists positioned themselves regarding obese patients in perioperative care. METHODS We used discursive psychology to analyse how registered nurse anaesthetists positioned themselves toward obese patients in perioperative care, while striving to provide equitable care. The empirical material was drawn from interviews with 15 registered nurse anaesthetists working in a hospital in northern Sweden. RESULTS Obese patients were described as "untypical", and more "resource-demanding" than for the "normal" patient in perioperative care. This created conflicting feelings, and generated frustration directed toward the patients when the care demanded extra work that had not been accounted for in the schedules created by the organization and managers. CONCLUSIONS Although the intention of these registered nurse anaesthetists was to offer all patients equitable care, the organization did not always provide the necessary resources. This contributed to the registered nurse anaesthetists either consciously or unconsciously blaming patients who deviated from the "norm".
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Sherf-Dagan S, Ofri L, Tayar I, Keisar I, Buch A, Paska-Davis N, Pinus M, Tesler R, Elran-Barak R, Boaz M, Green G. A multifaceted training tool to reduce weight bias among healthcare students: A randomized controlled trial. Obes Res Clin Pract 2024; 18:35-42. [PMID: 38184475 DOI: 10.1016/j.orcp.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Weight bias toward people with obesity (PwO) is common in healthcare settings. Efforts to address weight bias in healthcare settings should begin during university studies. This study aimed to explore the effect of a multifaceted intervention on weight bias among undergraduate healthcare students. METHODS An open label randomized controlled trial. The intervention tool consisted of short video lectures on obesity, vignettes simulating interactions between health professionals and PwO, and open discourse with a PwO. The control group received a short-written document on obesity. Online questionnaires on Anti-Fat Attitudes ('AFA'), short form of the Fat-Phobia Scale ('FPS'), Weight Implicit Association Test ('Weight-IAT'), and knowledge about obesity were administered at baseline, 1-week, and 6-week post-intervention. RESULTS A total of 162, 152, and 146 students participated in the study at baseline, 1-week, and 6-week post-intervention, respectively. Their mean age was 25.8 ± 6.7 years and 88.3% were women. Means of AFA total scores and FPS scores decreased significantly over time only within the intervention group (P Time*Group = 0.002 and 0.014). Both groups showed a similar trend over time in mean scores of Weight-IAT (P Time*Group = 0.868) and knowledge about obesity (P Time*Group = 0.115). CONCLUSIONS A multifaceted intervention resulted in a significant reduction in explicit weight bias but did not yield any additional advantages over the control group in implicit weight bias and knowledge about obesity. CLINICALTRIALS GOV NUMBER NCT05482802.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiri Sherf-Dagan
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel; Department of Nutrition, Assuta Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Lani Ofri
- Nursing Department, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Inbar Tayar
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Ido Keisar
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Assaf Buch
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel; Institute of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Hypertension, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Naama Paska-Davis
- Spokeswomen and public relations office, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Michael Pinus
- Department of Psychology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel; Harvard Business School, Harvard University, Boston, USA
| | - Riki Tesler
- Health Management Department, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Roni Elran-Barak
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Mona Boaz
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Gizell Green
- Nursing Department, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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Tamburrini N, Lockwood P. Obesity bias in diagnostic radiography students: A survey of attitudes, perceptions and technical confidence. Radiography (Lond) 2024; 30:202-208. [PMID: 38035434 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2023.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obesity bias exists in healthcare professionals and students from numerous disciplines and negatively impacts the quality of care, outcomes, engagement, and satisfaction of their patients. With obesity rates continuing to rise in the United Kingdom (UK), more patients will be affected than ever, and it is becoming an increasingly important issue to tackle. This study aims to assess the attitudes to obesity of student diagnostic radiographers and determine if obesity bias exists in this population. METHOD Student radiographers (n = 140) at a single university in the UK were invited to complete an online survey comprising measures designed to assess levels of bias and attitudes towards obesity, including the Attitude Towards Obese Persons (ATOP) scale. Likert-type scales were used to collect quantitative data, and data analysis included descriptive statistics, frequencies, and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. RESULTS Responses were received from n = 38 students. The mean ATOP score for participants was 70.37 (SD = 19.26). With 26 % (n = 10) scoring below 60, demonstrating strong negative attitudes towards obese individuals. Additionally, students (76.3 %; n = 29) indicated that they observed high levels of obesity bias whilst on clinical placement. There was a statistically significant correlation between levels of weight bias and students' confidence in working with obese patients (r(36) = 0.4, p 0.01). Students who are less confident working with obese patients had higher levels of obesity bias. CONCLUSIONS Obesity bias exists in radiography students at levels comparable to those that have been found previously in other healthcare professionals and students. Furthermore, radiography students lacked confidence in their technical ability to work with obese patients and lower confidence levels were associated with higher levels of obesity bias. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The findings of this study provide preliminary knowledge upon which future research can be built.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Tamburrini
- Radiology Department, Maidstone Hospital, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - P Lockwood
- Department of Radiography, School of Allied Health Professions, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Social Care, Canterbury Christ Church University, Kent, United Kingdom.
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Lewis BE, Naik AR. A scoping review to identify and organize literature trends of bias research within medical student and resident education. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:919. [PMID: 38053172 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04829-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physician bias refers to the unconscious negative perceptions that physicians have of patients or their conditions. Medical schools and residency programs often incorporate training to reduce biases among their trainees. In order to assess trends and organize available literature, we conducted a scoping review with a goal to categorize different biases that are studied within medical student (MS), resident (Res) and mixed populations (MS and Res). We also characterized these studies based on their research goal as either documenting evidence of bias (EOB), bias intervention (BI) or both. These findings will provide data which can be used to identify gaps and inform future work across these criteria. METHODS Online databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, WebofScience) were searched for articles published between 1980 and 2021. All references were imported into Covidence for independent screening against inclusion criteria. Conflicts were resolved by deliberation. Studies were sorted by goal: 'evidence of bias' and/or 'bias intervention', and by population (MS or Res or mixed) andinto descriptive categories of bias. RESULTS Of the initial 806 unique papers identified, a total of 139 articles fit the inclusion criteria for data extraction. The included studies were sorted into 11 categories of bias and showed that bias against race/ethnicity, specific diseases/conditions, and weight were the most researched topics. Of the studies included, there was a higher ratio of EOB:BI studies at the MS level. While at the Res level, a lower ratio of EOB:BI was found. CONCLUSIONS This study will be of interest to institutions, program directors and medical educators who wish to specifically address a category of bias and identify where there is a dearth of research. This study also underscores the need to introduce bias interventions at the MS level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianne E Lewis
- Department of Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI, 48859, USA
| | - Akshata R Naik
- Department of Foundational Medical Studies, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, 586 Pioneer Dr, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA.
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Abstract
Weight stigma is prevalent with negative consequences for health and well-being. This problem is present in health care; stigmatizing attitudes toward patients with obesity are expressed by medical professionals across diverse specialties and patient care settings. This article summarizes the ways in which weight stigma creates barriers to effective care, including poor patient-provider communication, reduced quality of care, and healthcare avoidance. Priorities for stigma reduction in healthcare are discussed, with a clear need for multifaceted approaches and inclusion of people with obesity whose perspectives can inform strategies to effectively remove bias-related barriers to patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Puhl
- Rudd Center for Food Policy & Health, University of Connecticut, One Constitution Plaza, Suite 600, Hartford, CT 06103, USA; Department of Human Development & Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
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13
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Joseph EC, Raque TL. Feasibility of a Loving Kindness Intervention for Mitigating Weight Stigma in Nursing Students: A Focus on Self-Compassion. Mindfulness (N Y) 2023; 14:841-853. [PMID: 37090853 PMCID: PMC9975442 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-023-02094-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Preliminary research on self-compassion as a target for reducing forms of bias is promising, yet healthcare provider self-compassion has not yet been explored in relationship to weight bias. Healthcare providers commonly endorse weight stigma and bias, contributing to health disparities for patients with "obesity." The current study explores the feasibility of the self-compassion loving kindness meditation (LKM) as a brief intervention that reduces weight bias in nursing students. Method Participants (189 nursing students) were randomly assigned to the LKM condition or body scan control condition before engaging in an implicit bias task and answering self-report measures of internalization of the thin ideal, weight bias, positive attitudes towards people with "obesity," positive emotions, self-compassion, cognitive flexibility, and compassionate care. Results Statistically significant differences in self-compassion, cognitive flexibility, weight bias, and compassionate care failed to be found between the groups. Participants in the LKM condition endorsed significantly higher levels of positive emotionality compared to the control condition. Higher levels of self-compassion were related to lower levels of weight bias for participants in both conditions. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that internalization of the thin ideal and self-compassion accounted for 19.2% of the variance in positive attitudes towards people with "obesity." Conclusions This study suggests the importance of examining self- and other-compassion in the context of weight stigma. Its findings exemplify the complexity of weight stigma and the need to further explore the mechanisms to be targeted to effectively reduce healthcare professionals' bias. Pre-registration This study is not preregistered.
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14
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Čadek M, Täuber S, Lawrence BJ, Flint SW. Effect of health-care professionals' weight status on patient satisfaction and recalled advice: a prospective cohort study. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 57:101855. [PMID: 36864980 PMCID: PMC9971267 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.101855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has demonstrated that healthcare professionals are not immune to weight stigma attitudes, with evidence showing that people living with overweight or obesity may experience direct and indirect stigma and discrimination. This can impact the quality of care provided and impact patients' engagement in healthcare. Despite this, there is a paucity of research examining patient attitudes towards healthcare professionals living with overweight or obesity, which can also hold implications for the patient-practitioner relationship. Thus, this study examined whether healthcare professionals' weight status impacts patient satisfaction and recalled advice. METHODS In this prospective cohort study, using an experimental design, 237 participants (113 women, 125 men) aged 32 ± 8.92 with a body mass index of 25.87 ± 6.79 kg m2 were recruited through a participant pooling service (ProlificTM), word of mouth, and social media. The majority of participants were from the UK: 119, followed by participants from the USA: 65, Czechia: 16, Canada: 11, and other countries (N = 26). Participants completed an online experiment consisting of questionnaires assessing satisfaction with healthcare professionals and recalled advice after exposure to one of eight conditions assessing the impact of healthcare professional weight status (lower weight or obesity), gender (woman or man) and profession (psychologist or dietitian). A novel approach to creating the stimuli was used to exposure participants to healthcare professionals of different weight status. All of the participants responded to the experiment hosted on Qualtrics™ in the period from June 8, 2016 to July 5, 2017. Study hypotheses were examined using linear regression with dummy variables and follow up post-hoc analysis to estimate marginal means with adjustment for planned comparisons. FINDINGS The only statistically significant result was a difference with a small effect in patient satisfaction, where satisfaction was significantly higher in healthcare professional who was a women living with obesity compared to healthcare professional who was a man living with obesity (estimate = -0.30; SE = 0.08; df = 229; ωₚ2 = 0.05; CI = -0.49 to -0.11; p < 0.001), and healthcare professional who was a women living with lower weight compared to healthcare professional who was a man living with lower weight (estimate = -0.21; SE = 0.08; df = 229; CI = -0.39 to -0.02; ωₚ2 = 0.02; p = 0.02). There were no statistically significant differences in satisfaction of healthcare professionals and recall of advice in the lower weight compared to obesity conditions. INTERPRETATION This study has used novel experimental stimuli to examine weight stigma towards healthcare professionals which is vastly under-researched and holds implications for the patient-practitioner relationship. Our findings showed statistically significant differences and a small effect where satisfaction with healthcare professionals both living with obesity and with a lower weight were higher when the healthcare professional was a woman compared to man. This research should act as a stimulus for further research that aims to examine the impact of healthcare professional gender on patient responses, satisfaction and engagement, and weight stigma from patients towards healthcare professionals. FUNDING Sheffield Hallam University.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Čadek
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Susanne Täuber
- Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Groningen, Nettelbosje 2, 9712 TS Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Blake J. Lawrence
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Stuart W. Flint
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Scaled Insights, Nexus, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Corresponding author. School of Psychology, University Road, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JU, UK.
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15
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Moore CH, Oliver TL, Randolph J, Dowdell EB. Interventions for reducing weight bias in healthcare providers: An interprofessional systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Obes 2022; 12:e12545. [PMID: 35946476 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Weight bias is prevalent in many healthcare disciplines and negatively impacts the quality of care for patients with obesity. This warrants interventions to reduce weight bias shown by providers to improve care for individuals with obesity. However, past reviews have identified only marginal success in improving the attitudes and beliefs of healthcare providers about individuals with obesity. This systematic review and meta-analysis identifies and synthesizes recent peer-reviewed intervention studies aimed at reducing weight bias in healthcare students and professionals. The databases Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsychINFO, PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and August 2021. Search terms included a combination of surrogate terms for the concepts of weight bias, intervention and healthcare students or professionals. The search yielded 1136 articles, and 14 articles met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Nineteen effect sizes from nine studies were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, the interventions in the included studies result in a 0.38 SD reduction (Hedge's g) in obesity-bias with 95% confidence intervals from -0.52 to -0.24, indicating a small to moderate effect size in the reduction of weight bias. Most studies included students and focused on evoking empathy or educating on the causality/controllability of obesity. Measurement tools, intervention type, limitations of the studies and recommendations for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Hallen Moore
- Georgia Baptist College of Nursing, Mercer University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tracy L Oliver
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Justus Randolph
- Georgia Baptist College of Nursing, Mercer University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth B Dowdell
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
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16
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Kanagasingam D, Norman M, Hurd L. 'It's not just to treat everybody the same': A social justice framework for caring for larger patients in healthcare practice. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2022; 44:899-918. [PMID: 35434819 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Drawing on semi-structured interviews with larger bodied patients (n = 20) and their healthcare practitioners (n = 22) in Canada, this paper combines micro and macro approaches in outlining a social justice approach to caring for larger patients in healthcare practice. Theoretically, we draw upon structural competency and critical consciousness to address the question of how social justice is enacted, experienced, and understood in interactions between clinicians and larger patients. Our findings highlight four key themes that provide a framework for integrating social justice into healthcare practice: (1) an awareness of one's simultaneous experience of marginalisation and privilege in the clinical interaction; (2) navigating between additive and interactive understandings of intersectionality; (3) micro and macro approaches to change; and (4) straddling the line between equity and equality. The synergies in participants' perspectives across social identities suggests that the cultivation of social justice awareness potentially mitigates some blinders of privilege. Furthermore, practitioners' social justice orientation positively impacted patient experience, with most patients expressing appreciation for having their various histories of trauma and social challenges handled compassionately during appointments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deana Kanagasingam
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Moss Norman
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Laura Hurd
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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17
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Klobodu SS, Mensah PA, Willis M, Bailey D. Weight Bias Among Nutrition and Dietetics Students in a Ghanaian Public University. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2022; 54:406-411. [PMID: 35351356 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To measure the internal consistency reliability of 3 weight bias scales among nutrition and dietetics students enrolled at a public university in Ghana and to use the Fat Phobia Scale (FPS) to determine the prevalence of weight bias and the differences in gender and body mass index. DESIGN Online survey gathered self-reported height, weight, and demographic data. Explicit weight bias was assessed using validated FPS, Beliefs About Obese People, and Attitudes Toward Obese Persons scales. PARTICIPANTS Sample of 172 students. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Prevalence of weight bias. ANALYSIS Cronbach α reliability test was used to measure the internal consistency of scales. The prevalence of weight bias was expressed as a percentage. Independent t tests and analysis of variance were used to explore differences in gender and weight categories. RESULTS The reliability scores for FPS, Beliefs About Obese People, and Attitudes Toward Obese Persons scales were 0.92, 0.51, and 0.38, respectively. About 53% of participants expressed weight bias. A significant difference was observed for weight bias between overweight and obese participants, with participants with obesity showing greater weight bias (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Fat Phobia Scale (most reliable) identified more than half of the students had a negative attitude toward obesity. Weight bias training within this population may improve attitudes toward obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth Selorm Klobodu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, California State University, Chico, CA.
| | - Peace Akua Mensah
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Mariah Willis
- Psychology Department, California State University, Chico, CA
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18
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Oliver TL, Qi BB, Diewald LK, Shenkman R, Kaufmann PG. Development of a weight bias reduction intervention for third-year nursing students. Clin Obes 2022; 12:e12498. [PMID: 34825503 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To explore whether case-based learning will enhance a weight bias reduction (WBR) programme among nursing students to improve their attitudes and beliefs towards persons with obesity. A cluster-randomized controlled trial (CRT) among 13 medical-surgical clinical practicum groups consisting of six to eight third-year baccalaureate nursing students was conducted to compare a WBR training enhanced by case-based learning (WBR-I, n = 7) with a standard WBR control group (n = 6). All participants completed the Attitudes Towards Obese Persons (ATOP) and Beliefs About Obese Persons (BAOP) questionnaires before the randomized assignment and at the end of the 14-week semester. The BAOP scores of participants in the WBR-I group were significantly improved compared to controls (26.68 ± 7.85 and 22.93 ± 2.80, respectively; F = 18.23; p = .001 (<.01) indicating improved beliefs about the controllability of obesity. There were no significant changes to attitudes about individuals with obesity, as indicated by the ATOP scores. The findings of this pilot study suggest that a more intensive WBR programme that includes case-based learning scenarios that elicit critical thinking coupled with a standard WBR programme may reduce some aspects of weight bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Oliver
- Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bing-Bing Qi
- Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lisa K Diewald
- MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education, Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rebecca Shenkman
- MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education, Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Peter G Kaufmann
- Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
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19
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First do no harm: reconsidering our approach to weight in primary care. Br J Gen Pract 2022; 72:102-103. [PMID: 35210233 PMCID: PMC8884442 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp22x718565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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20
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Cassiano GS, Carvalho-Ferreira JP, Buckland NJ, Ulian MD, da Cunha DT. Are Dietitians With Obesity Perceived as Competent and Warm? Applying the Stereotype Content Model to Weight Stigma in Brazil. Front Nutr 2022; 9:813344. [PMID: 35284459 PMCID: PMC8916106 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.813344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to understand how dietitians' body size influences perceived competence and warmth, based on the Stereotype Content Model (SCM). Online data were collected from 1,039 Brazilians, who were either laypeople, registered dietitians, or nutrition students. Participants rated the competence and warmth dimensions of three dietitians who differed in sex, body weight, and age. Participants also indicated how likelythey would consult or recommend each dietitian for nutritional advice, and indicated their attitudes toward people with obesity (PWO) [using The Antifat Attitudes Test (AFAT)]. Laypeople attributed less competence and warmth to all profiles compared to dietitians and students (p < 0.001). Three clusters occupied the SCM warmth-by-competence space. However, the clusters were different among groups (laypeople, dietitians, and students). For lay participants, the woman without overweight, the older woman, and the older man were located in the high competence/medium warmth cluster. Meanwhile, the woman with obesity was located in the medium competence/high warmth cluster. The dietitians and students map found the woman with obesity and the older woman in a high competence and warmth cluster. In general, the woman with obesity, the man without obesity, and the older man can be classified as ambivalent stereotypes, the woman being perceived as more warm than competent and the men more competent than warm. Participants with high AFAT scores were less likely to consult or recommend to a family member a dietitian with obesity. This study contributes to identifying ambivalent stereotypes for dietitians. Dietitians with obesity can be seen as warm but less competent. Also, although less intense than laypeople, dietitians, and students exhibited weight stigma. These findings can foster important discussions about weight stigma and emphasize the need to increase population awareness about the causes of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana Santarosa Cassiano
- Multidisciplinary Food and Health Laboratory, School of Applied Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Nicola J. Buckland
- Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Mariana Dimitrov Ulian
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diogo Thimoteo da Cunha
- Multidisciplinary Food and Health Laboratory, School of Applied Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Diogo Thimoteo da Cunha
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21
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Alvarenga MDS, Obara AA, Takeda GA, Ferreira-Vivolo SRG. Anti-fat attitudes of Nutrition undergraduates in Brazil toward individuals with obesity. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2022; 27:747-760. [DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232022272.02342021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Obesity-related prejudice and discrimination may have a source in health professionals and students. The objective was to assess anti-fat attitudes among Brazilian nutrition undergraduates who reported demographic data, weight, height and responded the Antifat Attitudes Test (AFAT) and the Brazilian Silhouette Scales to assess body image satisfaction and perception. Total and subscales of AFAT scores were compared among categories using the Mann-Whitney U test. Associations of participants’ characteristics with the AFAT were analyzed using multiple linear regression. Total AFAT score was positively associated with male sex (ß: .13; p < .001), age (ß: .06; p < .001), educational institution outside capital (ß: .03; p < .05), private institutions (ß: .08; p < .001); and negatively associated with income (ß: -.05; p = .006), participants who perceived themselves with increased BMI (ß: -.15; p < .001) and those at the third year of course (ß: -.05; p = .041). Subscales scores were positively associated with male sex and age; and negatively associated with those who perceived themselves heavier. They have anti-fat attitudes especially if they were man, older, from private institutions, are at the beginning of the course, and have lower household income - and less weight bias if they perceived with increased BMI.
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22
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Sherf-Dagan S, Kessler Y, Mardy-Tilbor L, Raziel A, Sakran N, Boaz M, Kaufman-Shriqui V. The Effect of an Education Module to Reduce Weight Bias among Medical Centers Employees: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Obes Facts 2022; 15:384-394. [PMID: 35066508 PMCID: PMC9210013 DOI: 10.1159/000521856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Weight bias, stigma, and discrimination are common among healthcare professionals. We aimed to evaluate whether an online education module affects weight bias and knowledge about obesity in a private medical center setting. METHODS An open-label randomized controlled trial was conducted among all employees of a chain of private medical centers in Israel (n = 3,290). Employees who confirmed their consent to participate in the study were randomized into intervention or control (i.e., "no intervention") arms. The study intervention was an online 15-min educational module that included obesity, weight bias, stigma, and discrimination information. Questionnaires on Anti-Fat Attitudes (AFA), fat-phobia scale (F-scale), and beliefs about the causes of obesity were answered at baseline (i.e., right before the intervention), 7 days, and 30 days post-intervention. RESULTS A total of 506, 230, and 145 employees responded to the baseline, 7-day, and 30-day post-intervention questionnaires, respectively. Mean participant age was 43.3 ± 11.6 years, 84.6% were women, and 67.4% held an academic degree. Mean F-scale scores and percentage of participants with above-average fat-phobic attitudes (≥3.6) significantly decreased only within the intervention group over time (p ≤ 0.042). However, no significant differences between groups over time were observed for AFA scores or factors beliefs to cause obesity. CONCLUSIONS A single exposure to an online education module on weight bias and knowledge about obesity may confer only a modest short-term improvement in medical center employees' fat-phobic attitudes toward people with obesity. Future studies should examine if reexposure to such intervention could impact weight bias, stigma, and discrimination among medical center staff in the long-term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiri Sherf-Dagan
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Department of Nutrition, Assuta Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yafit Kessler
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Assia Medical Group, Assuta Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Asnat Raziel
- Assia Medical Group, Assuta Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Nasser Sakran
- Assia Medical Group, Assuta Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Surgery, Holy Family Hospital, Nazareth, Israel
- The Azrieli Faculty of Medicine Safed, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Mona Boaz
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Vered Kaufman-Shriqui
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
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23
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KAYA CEBIOĞLU İ=, DUMLU BILGIN G, OKAN BAKIR B, GÜL KOYUNCU A. Weight bias among dietitians: does the weight status of the patients change the dietary approaches? REV NUTR 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-9865202235e210214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objective Since obesity is a multifactorial disease, some health professionals may esteem that weight control is a matter of personal willpower and stigmatize individuals. These weight-based attitudes seem quite common even among dietitians. This study aimed to determine whether the level of weight bias affects the dietary approaches of the dietitians. Methods Two hypothetical cases with obese and normal weight vignettes were created to be evaluated, and the explicit weight bias was assessed by the fat phobia scale among 99 dietitians via an online questionnaire. Results The majority of the dietitians demonstrated mild or moderate levels of weight bias (59.6% and 32.3%, respectively). The obese vignette had the highest agreement for nearly all adjectives and was perceived as having poorer diet quality, general health status, and insufficient physical activity level. Conclusion Overall, as weight bias is a concerning issue among most dietitians, necessary steps are required for the reduction of prejudice and thus protect the patients from stigmatizing attitudes.
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24
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Meadows A, Barreto M, Dovidio JF, Burke SE, Wittlin NM, Herrin J, Ryn M, Phelan SM. Signaling hostility: The relationship between witnessing weight‐based discrimination in medical school and medical student well‐being. JOURNAL OF APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/jasp.12847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Meadows
- School of Psychology University of Exeter Exeter UK
- Department of Psychology Western University London Ontario Canada
| | | | - John F. Dovidio
- Department of Psychology Yale University New Haven Connecticut USA
| | - Sara E. Burke
- Department of Psychology Syracuse University Syracuse New York USA
| | | | - Jeph Herrin
- School of Medicine Yale University New Haven Connecticut USA
| | - Michelle Ryn
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research Mayo Clinic Rochester Minnesota USA
| | - Sean M. Phelan
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research Mayo Clinic Rochester Minnesota USA
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25
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Lawrence BJ, Kerr D, Pollard CM, Theophilus M, Alexander E, Haywood D, O'Connor M. Weight bias among health care professionals: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2021; 29:1802-1812. [PMID: 34490738 DOI: 10.1002/oby.23266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Weight-biased attitudes and views held by health care professionals can have a negative impact on the patient-provider relationship and the provision of care, but studies have found mixed results about the extent and nature of bias, which warrants a review of the evidence. METHODS A systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis were conducted by including studies up to January 12, 2021. RESULTS A total of 41 studies met inclusion criteria, with 17 studies providing sufficient data to be meta-analyzed. A moderate pooled effect (standardized mean difference = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.37-0.96) showed that health care professionals demonstrate implicit weight bias. Health care professionals also report explicit weight bias on the Fat Phobia Scale, Antifat Attitudes Scale, and Attitudes Towards Obese Persons Scale. Findings show that medical doctors, nurses, dietitians, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, podiatrists, and exercise physiologists hold implicit and/or explicit weight-biased attitudes toward people with obesity. A total of 27 different outcomes were used to measure weight bias, and the overall quality of evidence was rated as very low. CONCLUSIONS Future research needs to adopt more robust research methods to improve the assessment of weight bias and to inform future interventions to address weight bias among health care professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake J Lawrence
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Western Australia Cancer Prevention Research Unit, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Deborah Kerr
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Christina M Pollard
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Mary Theophilus
- St John of God Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Elise Alexander
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Western Australia Cancer Prevention Research Unit, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Darren Haywood
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Western Australia Cancer Prevention Research Unit, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Western Australia Cancer Prevention Research Unit, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Do Registered Dietitians, Nutrition Students, and Laypeople Perceive Individuals with Obesity Differently? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18178925. [PMID: 34501514 PMCID: PMC8431474 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18178925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Obesity is associated with significant social consequences, and individuals with obesity are regularly affected by weight-related stigmatization experiences. This study compares antifat attitudes among registered dietitians (RD), nutrition students, and laypeople and assesses which factors related to the perceived causes of obesity influence these attitudes. (2) Methods: An online survey was conducted in Brazil with RD (n = 336), nutrition students (n = 300), and laypeople (n = 403) with questionnaires assessing antifat attitudes and perceived causes of obesity. (3) Results: All groups presented low antifat attitudes. Minor differences in antifat attitudes were found among the three groups. Compared to RDs and nutrition students, laypeople presented higher Weight Control/Blame scores, but with a small effect size (η2 = 0.01). Weight bias was predicted by age, sex, and body mass index. External, social, and financial factors were not perceived to be very important in the development of obesity by RD and students. (4) Conclusions: Since slight differences were seen among RD and students compared to laypeople, and some perceptions of the causes of obesity indicate a stigmatized view. It is essential to place a greater focus on educating and updating these health professionals and students about weight stigma and its consequences for the mental and physical health of individuals.
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Puhl RM, Lessard LM, Himmelstein MS, Foster GD. The roles of experienced and internalized weight stigma in healthcare experiences: Perspectives of adults engaged in weight management across six countries. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251566. [PMID: 34061867 PMCID: PMC8168902 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Considerable evidence from U.S. studies suggests that weight stigma is consequential for patient-provider interactions and healthcare for people with high body weight. Despite international calls for efforts to reduce weight stigma in the medical community, cross-country research is lacking in this field. This study provides the first multinational investigation of associations between weight stigma and healthcare experiences across six Western countries. METHODS Participants were 13,996 adults residing in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the UK, and the US who were actively enrolled in an internationally available behavioral weight management program. Participants completed identical online surveys in the dominant language for their country that assessed experienced weight stigma, internalized weight bias, and healthcare behaviors and experiences including perceived quality of care, avoidance or delay of seeking care, experiences with providers, and perceived weight stigma from doctors. RESULTS Among participants who reported a history of weight stigma (56-61%), two-thirds of participants in each country reported experiencing weight stigma from doctors. Across all six countries, after accounting for demographics, BMI, and experienced stigma, participants with higher internalized weight bias reported greater healthcare avoidance, increased perceived judgment from doctors due to body weight, lower frequency of obtaining routine checkups, less frequent listening and respect from providers, and lower quality of healthcare. Additionally, experienced weight stigma (from any source) was indirectly associated with poorer healthcare experiences through weight bias internalization, consistently across the six countries. CONCLUSIONS Weight stigma in healthcare is prevalent among adults actively engaged in weight management across different Western countries, and internalized weight bias has negative implications for healthcare even after controlling for BMI. The similar findings across all six countries underscore the negative consequences of weight stigma on healthcare behaviors and experiences, and emphasize the need for collective international efforts to address this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Puhl
- Department of Human Development & Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, United States of America
- Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, University of Connecticut, Hartford, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Leah M. Lessard
- Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, University of Connecticut, Hartford, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Mary S. Himmelstein
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Gary D. Foster
- WW, New York, New York, United States of America
- Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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O'Donoghue G, McMahon S, Holt A, Nedai M, Nybo T, Peiris CL. Obesity bias and stigma, attitudes and beliefs among entry-level physiotherapy students in the Republic of Ireland: a cross sectional study. Physiotherapy 2021; 112:55-63. [PMID: 34051594 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2021.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore entry-level physiotherapy students' attitudes and beliefs relating to weight bias and stigmatisation in healthcare. DESIGN Cross sectional survey of physiotherapy students. METHODS All final year physiotherapy students (n = 215) enrolled in entry-level physiotherapy programmes in the Republic of Ireland were invited to participate. Each received a questionnaire, consisting of 72 questions, within four key sections. Descriptive statistics and frequencies were used to analyse the data. RESULTS A response rate of 83% (179/215) was achieved. Whilst physiotherapy students, overall, had a positive attitude towards people with obesity, 29% had a negative attitude towards people with obesity, 24% had a negative attitude towards managing this population and most (74%) believed obesity was caused by behavioural and individual factors. Over one third of students (35%) reported that they would not be confident in managing patients with obesity and more than half (54%) felt treating patients with obesity was not worthwhile. CONCLUSION This study provides preliminary findings to suggest that weight stigma-reduction efforts are warranted for physiotherapy students. Helping students to understand that obesity is a complex, chronic condition with multiple aspects requiring a multi-faceted approach to its management might be the first step towards dispelling these negative attitudes towards patients living with obesity. Inclusion of a formal obesity curriculum should perhaps now be part of the contemporary physiotherapy students' education.
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Affiliation(s)
- G O'Donoghue
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland.
| | - S McMahon
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland.
| | - A Holt
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland.
| | - M Nedai
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland.
| | - T Nybo
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Ireland.
| | - C L Peiris
- La Trobe University, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, Physiotherapy, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Oliver TL, Shenkman R, Diewald LK, Smeltzer SC. Reflective journaling of nursing students on weight bias. NURSE EDUCATION TODAY 2021; 98:104702. [PMID: 33421744 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2020.104702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-reflection, combined with clinical experience, has been shown to enhance clinical and didactic knowledge among undergraduate nursing students. Reflective journaling is a valuable educational tool that builds critical thinking skills and raises self-awareness through the purposeful inspection of beliefs and attitudes. However, there are little data available on reflective journaling during clinical education exploring weight bias as part of a weight sensitivity training program. OBJECTIVES The study aimed to explore the use of reflective journals as a tool to raise self-awareness and self-reflection of weight bias as part of a weight sensitivity training program. SETTINGS The project was conducted at a four-year pre-licensure baccalaureate nursing program with third-year clinical students in a private Catholic university in southeastern Pennsylvania, USA. PARTICIPANTS All third-year students enrolled in a medical-surgical clinical practicum were eligible to participate from August to December 2017. DESIGN & METHODS For this qualitative study, data were collected during the 15-week medical-surgical clinical practicum, in which students completed five journal entries. De-identified data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS A total of 98 students, 18 years of age and older consented, and 280 journal entries were analyzed. Four themes emerged from a majority of the journal entries: 1) increased self-awareness of personal weight bias; 2) acknowledgment of obesity as a chronic disease and not a choice; 3) insufficient resources or training may perpetuate weight bias; and 4) opportunity for weight sensitivity training to improve patient care. CONCLUSIONS Through reflective journaling, nursing students were able to periodically self-reflect on their personal weight bias as it pertained to caring for patients with obesity. This introspective self-reflection as part of a weight sensitivity training may lead to not only improving clinical competencies in patient care but also in reducing weight bias in clinical practicum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Oliver
- Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085, United States of America.
| | - Rebecca Shenkman
- MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education, Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085, United States of America.
| | - Lisa K Diewald
- MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education, Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 19085, United States of America.
| | - Suzanne C Smeltzer
- Office of Nursing Research and Evaluation, Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, PA 190895, United States of America.
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Abbott S, Parretti HM, Greenfield S. Experiences and perceptions of dietitians for obesity management: a general practice qualitative study. J Hum Nutr Diet 2021; 34:494-503. [PMID: 33438804 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.12855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multi-component lifestyle interventions are the first line treatment for obesity. Dietitians are ideally placed healthcare professionals to deliver such interventions. However, only a small proportion of patients with obesity are referred by general practice to dietitians, and the reasons for this are not clear. The present study aimed to explore general practice healthcare professionals' (GPHCPs) experiences and perceptions of dietitians in the context of obesity management. METHODS A convenience sample of GPHCPs practicing in the UK was recruited via a targeted social media strategy, using virtual snowball sampling. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using framework analysis. RESULTS In total, 20 participants were interviewed (11 general practice nurses and nine general practitioners). Experiences of referring patients with obesity for dietetic intervention resulted in two main themes: (i) access barriers and (ii) the dietetic consult experience. Three themes emerged from participants' perceptions of a role for general practice dietitians: (i) utilising dietetic expertise; (ii) access to dietitian; and (iii) time. Participants experienced barriers to accessing dietitians for obesity management and felt that having a dietitian working within their general practice team would help address this. Having a dietitian embedded within their general practice team was perceived to have the potential to alleviate GPHCPs' clinical time pressures, offer opportunities for upskilling, and may improve patient engagement with obesity management. CONCLUSIONS GPHCPs perceived that embedding a dietitian within their general practice team would be valuable and beneficial for obesity management. Our findings provide support for the funding of general practice dietitian roles in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Abbott
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Department of Endocrinology & Bariatric Surgery, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - H M Parretti
- Norwich Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - S Greenfield
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Holt G, Hughes D. A study using semi-structured interview and Delphi survey to explore the barriers and enabling factors that influence access and utilisation of weight management services for people living with morbid obesity: A patient and professional perspective. J Hum Nutr Diet 2020; 34:215-223. [PMID: 33170550 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.12832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A quarter of the United Kingdom's population are living with obesity, a disease that causes an estimated 30 000 deaths each year. This coincides with an under-utilisation of weight management services across the country with the majority of patients with morbid obesity having no record of any weight loss intervention at all. This study explores the factors that influence patient access to weight management services. METHODOLOGY Expert opinion was obtained using semi-structured interviews and the Delphi methodology. Participants were selected from primary and secondary healthcare settings. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) had experience working in weight management services or in services dealing with obesity-related comorbidities. Patients had experience in attending a variety weight management services. RESULTS Nineteen participants completed all aspects of the study. The main barriers included negative perceptions, low mood/depression, obesity not being considered as a serious disease, lack of access to services for housebound patients and disproportionate commissioning. Suggested facilitating factors to improve access included the education of all HCPs about obesity, improving HCP communication with patients, and broadening the number of HCP's that are able to refer to weight management services. CONCLUSIONS Future services must prioritise the education of all HCPs and the public to combat the stigma of obesity and its impact on health. National commissioning guidelines in partnership with advocates of obesity should seek to streamline referral pathways, broaden referral sources and increase the availability of specialist services. Awareness of these factors when designing future weight management services will help to improve their utilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Holt
- East Midlands Bariatric & Metabolic Institute, Royal Derby Hospital (University Hospitals of Derby and Burton), Derby, UK
| | - David Hughes
- East Midlands Bariatric & Metabolic Institute, Royal Derby Hospital (University Hospitals of Derby and Burton), Derby, UK
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Oliver TL, Shenkman R, Diewald LK, Dowdell EB. Nursing students' perspectives on observed weight bias in healthcare settings: A qualitative study. Nurs Forum 2020; 56:58-65. [PMID: 33155694 DOI: 10.1111/nuf.12522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Weight bias continues to be problematic within the healthcare setting among practicing healthcare providers (HCPs). These HCPs serve as influential role models for nursing students when immersed in the clinical environment. However, if HCPs are demonstrating bias toward patients with obesity, this may influence nursing students' beliefs and practices. AIMS This study aimed to explore nursing students' reflections of observed weight bias within the healthcare setting. MATERIALS & METHODS A descriptive qualitative study design was used involving reflective journaling and qualitative content analysis. Two cohorts of third-year baccalaureate nursing students (n = 197) participated in weight sensitivity training and submitted reflective journals over one academic semester. RESULTS Reports of weight bias were categorized into three themes-(1) Direct Impact: Observed Implicit and Explicit Provider Weight Bias; (2) Indirect Impact: Weight Bias Due to Skills, Equipment, or Staffing/Environmental Deficits; and (3) Reactions toward HCP Weight Bias: Conflict Between Weight Bias Training and Real-World Healthcare Experiences. DISCUSSION Weight bias was observed in some HCPs within the healthcare setting. Student reflections explored weight bias and the opposing messages between weight sensitivity training and real-world practices. CONCLUSION Preventing bias through continuing education for HCPs is crucial to provide compassionate care and instill ethical values in the next generation nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Oliver
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rebecca Shenkman
- MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education, M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lisa K Diewald
- MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education, M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Elizabeth B Dowdell
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
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Croghan IT, Ebbert JO, Njeru JW, Rajjo TI, Lynch BA, DeJesus RS, Jensen MD, Fischer KM, Phelan S, Kaufman TK, Schroeder DR, Rutten LJF, Crane SJ, Tulledge-Scheitel SM. Identifying Opportunities for Advancing Weight Management in Primary Care. J Prim Care Community Health 2020; 10:2150132719870879. [PMID: 31496342 PMCID: PMC6734618 DOI: 10.1177/2150132719870879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Much has been written about the patients' perspective concerning weight management in health care. The purpose of this survey study was to assess perspectives of primary care providers (PCPs) and nurses toward patient weight management and identify possible areas of growth. Patients and Methods: We emailed a weight management-focused survey to 674 eligible participants (437 [64.8%] nurses and 237 [35.2%] PCPs) located in 5 outpatient primary care clinics. The survey focused on opportunities, practices, knowledge, confidence, attitudes, and beliefs. A total of 219 surveys were returned (137 [62.6%] from nurses and 82 [34.4%] from PCPs). Results: Among 219 responders, 85.8% were female and 93.6% were white non-Hispanic. In this study, PCPs and nurses believed obesity to be a major health problem. While PCPs felt more equipped than nurses to address weight management (P < .001) and reported receiving more training than nurses (50.0% vs 17.6%, respectively), both felt the need for more training on obesity (73.8% and 79.4%, respectively). Although, PCPs also spent more patient contact time providing weight management services versus nurses (P < .001), the opportunity/practices score was lower for PCPs than nurses (-0.35 ± 0.44 vs -0.17 ± 0.41, P < .001) with PCPs more likely to say they lacked the time to discuss weight and they worried it would cause a poor patient-PCP relationship. The knowledge/confidence score also differed significantly between the groups, with nurses feeling less equipped to deal with weight management issues than PCPs (-0.42 ± 0.43 vs -0.03 ± 0.55, P < .001). Neither group seemed very confident, with those in the PCP group only answering with an average score of neutral. Conclusion: By asking nurses and PCP general questions about experiences, attitudes, knowledge, and opinions concerning weight management in clinical care, this survey has identified areas for growth in obesity management. Both PCPs and nurses would benefit from additional educational training on weight management.
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Hyer S, Conner NE. Concept of overweight bias among healthcare professionals: An evolutionary concept analysis. Nurs Forum 2020; 55:395-402. [PMID: 32124459 DOI: 10.1111/nuf.12442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this concept analysis was to identify the attributes of overweight bias among healthcare providers (HCPs) and create a clear definition to guide the recognition of overweight bias among HCPs. Settings within the healthcare system are not exempt from bias and the stigmatization of persons with obesity. Overweight bias among HCPs may negatively impact health care and health outcomes. Rodger's evolutionary method was used to guide this concept analysis. The databases CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO were searched. The analysis provided clarification of the concept to facilitate HCP self-awareness of overweight bias. A definition of the concept of overweight bias among HCPs is provided along with its attributes, antecedents, and consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Hyer
- College of Nursing, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
| | - Norma E Conner
- College of Nursing, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
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Ananthakumar T, Jones NR, Hinton L, Aveyard P. Clinical encounters about obesity: Systematic review of patients' perspectives. Clin Obes 2020; 10:e12347. [PMID: 31793217 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Guidelines recommend clinicians intervene on obesity but it is unclear how people with overweight react. In this systematic review, we searched 20 online databases for qualitative studies interviewing people with overweight or obesity who had consulted a primary care clinician. Framework synthesis was used to analyse 21 studies to produce a new theoretical understanding. Consultations in which patients discussed their weight were more infrequent than patients would have liked, which some perceived was because they were unworthy of medical time; others that it indicated doctors feel being overweight is not a serious risk. Patients reported that doctors offered banal advice assuming that the patient ate unhealthily or was not trying to address their weight. Patients reported doctors assumed that their symptoms were due to overweight without a proper history or examination, creating concern that serious illness may be missed. Patients responded positively to offers of support for weight loss and active monitoring of weight. Patients with overweight internalize weight stigma sensitizing them to clues that clinicians are judging them negatively, even if weight is not discussed. Patients' negative experiences in consultations relate to perceived snap judgements and flippant advice and negative experiences appear more salient than positive ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanusha Ananthakumar
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicholas R Jones
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lisa Hinton
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul Aveyard
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Werkhoven T. Designing, implementing and evaluating an educational intervention targeting weight bias and fat stereotyping. J Health Psychol 2020; 26:2084-2097. [PMID: 31960717 DOI: 10.1177/1359105319901310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Weight bias directed at individuals at a higher weight leaves them feeling victimised and judged. When possessed by health professionals, stigmatising attitudes may compromise professionalism and quality of care or education provided. An intervention study was conducted in the higher education setting (n = 124), through tailored course design and delivery. The intervention was embedded into a health elective that pre-service health professionals were enrolled in. Attitudes to weight and knowledge of nutrition were targeted simultaneously. Surveys conducted pre- and post-intervention revealed moderate success in achieving study aims of improving nutrition knowledge and decreasing bias. Focus group analyses supported the quantitative findings.
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McPherson AC, Chen L, O'Neil J, Vanderbom KA. Nutrition, metabolic syndrome, and obesity: Guidelines for the care of people with spina bifida. J Pediatr Rehabil Med 2020; 13:637-653. [PMID: 33325412 PMCID: PMC7838992 DOI: 10.3233/prm-200753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutritional challenges and a lack of activity can lead to health problems across the lifespan for people with spina bifida. Children and adults with spina bifida are also at greater risk of being classified as overweight or obese compared to their peers without the condition. Therefore, early recognition of nutrition problems, weight management counseling, and timely referrals for evaluation and management of diet and activity can help those with spina bifida and their families achieve a healthy lifestyle. This article details the development of the Nutrition, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity Guidelines, which are part of the 2018 Spina Bifida Association's Fourth Edition of the Guidelines for the Care of People with Spina Bifida. It discusses the identification and management of poor nutrition and prevention of obesity for children, adolescents, and adults with spina bifida and highlights areas requiring further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy C McPherson
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lorry Chen
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joseph O'Neil
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Riley Hospital for Children Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kerri A Vanderbom
- National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability, University of Alabama at Birmingham/Lakeshore Research Collaborative, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Elboim-Gabyzon M, Attar K, Peleg S. Weight Stigmatization among Physical Therapy Students and Registered Physical Therapists. Obes Facts 2020; 13:104-116. [PMID: 32074613 PMCID: PMC7250323 DOI: 10.1159/000504809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Weight stigmatization is reflected in anti-fat attitudes and stereotypical perceptions of people who are overweight; it has been demonstrated to be prevalent in many segments of society across multiple countries. Studies examining the prevalence of weight stigmatization use different research tools, which can hinder inter-study comparisons. There is also evidence indicating weight stigmatization among registered physical therapists, although its magnitude differs between studies. Limited information exists regarding the attitudes and beliefs of physical therapy (PT) students toward individuals with obesity. Examining weight stigmatization among PT students is particularly important for developing appropriate educational interventions that may influence the professional lives of future physical therapists. OBJECTIVE This study aims to characterize and compare the stigmatizing attitudes and beliefs of PT students and certified physical therapists regarding people with obesity in Israel. Its secondary objective is to translate three weight stigmatization questionnaires into Hebrew and determine their psychometric properties. METHODS A cross-sectional, anonymous, and computerized self-report survey was completed by 285 certified physical therapists (average age 39.6 ± 10.1 years) and 115 PT students (average age 26.4 ± 4.9 years). The study used three validated weight stigma questionnaires employed in earlier studies to determine different aspects of weight stigmatization: the Fat Phobia Scale (short form; FPS), Anti-Fat Attitudes (AFA) questionnaire, and Beliefs about Obese People (BAOP). These questionnaires were translated into Hebrew and their psychometric properties ascertained. RESULTS Similar to the original English versions, the translated versions of the three questionnaires demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's α values of FPS = 0.77; AFA = 0.75; BOAP = 0.59). The three questionnaires showed a low correlation. No significant difference was noted in the FPS and AFA scores between groups, reflecting that both demonstrated average weight stigmatization (FBS in both groups: average score of 3.6 out of 5; AFA therapists: 3.3 ± 1.2, students: 3.0 ± 1.2 out of 9). However, significant between-group differences were observed for BOAP, which examines beliefs regarding individuals' control over their weight (therapists: 16.4 ± 5.6, students: 18.0 ± 5.7 out of 48; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Student and certified physical therapists demonstrate average levels of weight stigmatization, as reflected in the FPS and AFA scores. Nevertheless, compared to certified physical therapists, physical therapist students believe more strongly that obesity cannot be controlled by the individual. The students' beliefs could affect their clinical judgment and behavior as health care professionals in the future. Therefore, anti-fat attitudes and stereotypical perceptions should be addressed and remediated early using educational interventions during the study period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Elboim-Gabyzon
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, Physical Therapy Department, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel,
| | - Karin Attar
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, Physical Therapy Department, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Smadar Peleg
- Physical Therapy Department, Zefat Academic College, Zefat, Israel
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Bessey M, Lordly D. Weight Inclusive Practice: Shifting the Focus from Weight to Social Justice. CAN J DIET PRACT RES 2019; 81:127-131. [PMID: 31736326 DOI: 10.3148/cjdpr-2019-034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is framed by mainstream media and health care professionals as an "epidemic" contributing to the ill health of the population. This paper reviews literature related to dominant discourses about weight in dietetics, drawing on literature from other health care disciplines, and how these discourses influence patient care. Emerging, competing discourses are also reviewed. Literature highlighted that dietitians and dietetic students are often biased and hold stigmatizing beliefs toward "overweight" and "obese" patients. No research has been conducted in Canada addressing this question, leaving this as an opportunity for future research. Weight stigma and interventions focused on weight have multiple negative implications for individuals, especially those living in larger bodies, including reluctance to seek health care, poor body image, subsequent weight gain, and increased disordered eating. There are alternative discourses emerging, which shift the focus away from weight and toward social justice. The ways in which dietetic students are trained to "manage" weight, and how dominant discourses influence this training, is an important area of future exploration. Dietetic professionals are encouraged to reflect on their weight biases and educate themselves on weight inclusive approaches to health, such as Health at Every Size and Well Now.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Bessey
- Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS.,Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS
| | - Daphne Lordly
- Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS.,Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS
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40
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Ward P, McPhail D. Fat Shame and Blame in Reproductive Care: Implications for Ethical Health Care Interactions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/23293691.2019.1653581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Ward
- Centre for Nursing Studies, Memorial University, St. John’s, NL, Canada
- Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL, Canada
| | - Deborah McPhail
- Community Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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41
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Mastrocola MR, Roque SS, Benning LV, Stanford FC. Obesity education in medical schools, residencies, and fellowships throughout the world: a systematic review. Int J Obes (Lond) 2019; 44:269-279. [PMID: 31551484 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-019-0453-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is pandemic throughout the world, and there is concern that physicians are inadequately trained to treat their patients with obesity despite its prevalence. This review explores obesity education in medical students, resident, and fellow physicians throughout the world from 2005 to 2018. Previous reviews on obesity education were conducted before 2011, focused solely on medical students, and only explored obesity education in the United States. We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and ERIC databases for studies which included the search terms "obesity education" AND either "medical students", "residency", or "fellowship" that met PICOS (Population, Interventions, Comparators, Outcomes, Study Design) criteria for articles published in English for obesity education and evaluation of outcomes. Our initial search yielded 234 articles, and 27 studies met criteria for our review. We described and analyzed these studies for their study design and graded quality, quantity, and consistency for each measured outcome. We applied an evidence grading system that has been previously applied in the literature in which each outcome measure was graded on a scale from A to D. We evaluated obesity education programs for outcomes regarding implicit and explicit bias, changes in attitude towards obesity, weight change, obesity knowledge, counseling confidence, intent to counsel, and counseling quality. There was a significant degree of heterogeneity in the studies included. While obesity knowledge was most frequently studied, counseling confidence was the only outcome with an overall grade A. There is currently a paucity of obesity education programs for medical students, residents, and fellow physicians in training programs throughout the world despite high disease prevalence. However, these programs often improve outcomes when they are administered. Our review suggests that more obesity education should be administered in undergraduate and graduate medical education to ensure optimal treatment of patients with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lauren V Benning
- Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Lillington, NC, USA
| | - Fatima Cody Stanford
- Department of Medicine-Division of Endocrinology-Neuroendocrine Department of Pediatrics-Division of Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital, MGH Weight Center, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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42
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Affiliation(s)
- S. W. Flint
- School of Sport Leeds Beckett University Leeds UK
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43
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Holman H, Dey S, Drobish I, Aquino L, Davis AT, Koehler TJ, Malouin R. Obesity education in the family medicine clerkship: a US and Canadian survey of clerkship directors' beliefs, barriers, and curriculum content. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2019; 19:169. [PMID: 31133020 PMCID: PMC6537396 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-019-1614-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite concerns regarding the increasing obesity epidemic, little is known regarding obesity curricula in medical education. Medical school family medicine clerkships address common primary care topics during clinical training. However, studies have shown that many family physicians feel unprepared at addressing obesity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors related to obesity education provided during family medicine clerkships as well as identify future plans regarding obesity education. METHODS Data were collected through the 2017 Educational Research Alliance (CERA) survey of Family Medicine Clerkship Directors (CDs) in the United States and Canada. Survey items included the level of importance of obesity education, teaching methods, barriers to teaching, and obesity related topics taught during the clerkship. Survey data were summarized and analyzed. RESULTS The survey response rate was 71.2%. The most frequent barrier to teaching obesity related topics was time constraints (89%). The most commonly taught topics were co-morbid conditions (82.1%), diet (76.9%), and exercise (76.9%). The least commonly taught topics were addressed less than 30% of the time, and included cultural aspects, obesity bias, medications than can cause weight gain, medications to treat obesity, and bariatric surgery. Over half of CDs (59%) are not planning to change existing curriculum, with 39% planning to add to the current curriculum. The CDs' perceptions of the importance of obesity education were significantly associated with the number of topics covered during clerkship (p < 0.001). No relationship was found between clerkship duration and the number of obesity topics taught. CONCLUSION The majority of clerkship directors are planning no changes to their existing curricula which consist of three common topics: obesity related co-morbid conditions, diet, and exercise. While time was the largest self-rated barrier in teaching obesity related topics, clerkship duration didn't impact the number of topics taught. However, the relative amount of importance placed by CDs upon obesity education was significantly associated with the number of topics covered during clerkship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harland Holman
- Spectrum Health Family Medicine Department, 25 Michigan Ave, Suite 5100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Sumi Dey
- Spectrum Health Family Medicine Department, 25 Michigan Ave, Suite 5100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Ian Drobish
- Spectrum Health Family Medicine Department, 25 Michigan Ave, Suite 5100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Leora Aquino
- Spectrum Health Family Medicine Department, 25 Michigan Ave, Suite 5100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Alan T. Davis
- Spectrum Health, Office of Medical Education, 945 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Tracy J. Koehler
- Spectrum Health, Office of Medical Education, 945 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Rebecca Malouin
- Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, 909 Fee Road, B201, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
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Yılmaz HÖ, Yabancı Ayhan N. Is there prejudice against obese persons among health professionals? A sample of student nurses and registered nurses. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2019; 55:262-268. [PMID: 30701561 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to assess whether there is prejudice toward obese persons among student nurses and registered nurses. DESIGN AND METHOD A total of 379 participants were included (190 student nurses, 189 registered nurses). The Fat Phobia Scale and Belief About Obese Persons Scale were used to determine the prejudice. FINDINGS Registered nurses were found to have more negative prejudices toward obese persons than those of student nurses. These prejudices were determined to be influenced by the nurses' body mass index and having an obese person in the family. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Both groups had negative prejudices toward obese persons, there was a higher level of prejudice among the registered nurses. These prejudices can have a negative impact on healthcare practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hacı Ömer Yılmaz
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Science, Gümüşhane University, Gümüşhane, Turkey
| | - Nurcan Yabancı Ayhan
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
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45
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Kadar GE, Thompson HG. Obesity bias among preclinical and clinical chiropractic students and faculty at an integrative health care institution: A cross-sectional study. THE JOURNAL OF CHIROPRACTIC EDUCATION 2019; 33:8-15. [PMID: 30044139 PMCID: PMC6417871 DOI: 10.7899/jce-17-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of obesity bias among preclinical and clinical chiropractic students and faculty at an integrative health care academic institution. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional quantitative, single-method survey with group comparison using the Beliefs About Obese Persons scale (BAOP) and the Attitudes Toward Obese Persons scale. Both instruments were administered as a single 28 question survey via email to 450 students and 46 faculty members in a doctor of chiropractic (DC) program. Differences were determined by 2 tailed t tests. RESULTS: The response rate for faculty and students was 31% and 65%, respectively. One hundred forty-three DC students, preclinical ( n = 65) and clinical ( n = 78), and 30 DC faculty, preclinical ( n = 15) and clinical ( n = 15) completed the survey. Both students and faculty harbored antiobesity attitudes and moderate antiobesity beliefs. Students demonstrated slightly more positive attitudes toward obese persons than did preclinical faculty. Although preclinical faculty did not demonstrate more biased attitudes than did preclinical students ( p = .057), they were more biased than clinical students ( p = .26). On the BAOP, preclinical faculty scored significantly lower than both preclinical students and clinical students ( p = .013 and .017, respectively). CONCLUSION: Obesity bias was common among clinical and preclinical chiropractic students and faculty at our institution. A cultural shift that reduces bias may require changes in both the curriculum and cocurriculum.
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46
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Moller N, Tischner I. Young people’s perceptions of fat counsellors: “How can THAT help me?”. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/14780887.2018.1536384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Moller
- The Open University, School of Psychology, United Kingdom
| | - Irmgard Tischner
- Technische Hochschule Deggendorf (THD), Applied Healthcare Sciences, Germany
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47
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Provvidenza CF, Hartman LR, McPherson AC. Fostering positive weight-related conversations between health care professionals, children, and families: Development of a knowledge translation Casebook and evaluation protocol. Child Care Health Dev 2019; 45:138-145. [PMID: 30376689 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care professionals (HCPs) must communicate with children and families about weight management in a sensitive and nonstigmatizing manner. However, HCPs receive little training in weight-related communication and have requested resources, but these are scarce. This article details the development process of a knowledge translation (KT) Casebook and outlines the proposed protocol for its implementation and evaluation. METHODS Guided by the knowledge-to-action cycle, a KT Casebook aimed at HCPs integrated findings from a comprehensive scoping review with experiential and contextual evidence gathered through stakeholder workshops to provide guidance to HCPs communicating with children and families around weight-related issues. It was structured around five questions: (a) Who should participate in weight-related discussions? (b) When and how should the topic of weight be broached? (c) What terminology should be used? (d) How can HCPs enhance family engagement in weight-related discussions? (e) What specific communication techniques have been recommended? Checklists, evidence summaries, case studies, sentence starters, simulations, and other resources were clustered under each question. A dissemination strategy was developed using KT best practices and a pilot evaluation protocol designed. RESULTS The Casebook was launched in November 2017 and has been presented at pediatric rehabilitation and obesity conferences. A communication strategy targeted multidisciplinary experts and organizations with weight management within their scope of practice. These efforts have resulted in 2,497 downloads across five countries to date. CONCLUSIONS A practical and engaging KT Casebook was created to help foster positive weight-related conversations between HCPs, children, and their families. A pilot implementation study examining the impact of the Casebook on clinical practice will provide critical information for embedding the Casebook in a range of health care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine F Provvidenza
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - Laura R Hartman
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, Canada.,Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - Amy C McPherson
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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48
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Goad E, Gleeson K, Jackson S. Personal factors associated with the attitudes of nurses towards patients with obesity: a literature review. Clin Obes 2018; 8:444-451. [PMID: 30222911 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This literature review explores the association between body mass index and self-esteem in nurses, alongside their attitudes towards patients who have obesity. These variables have either previously been linked to weight bias, or with prejudice more generally, but findings in this context are inconclusive. Searches were conducted through Psychology Cross Search, PubMed, Web of Science, Proquest Allied Health Professionals and Google Scholar. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and were tabulated and critiqued using appropriate appraisal tools. The literature covered a time span of over 30 years with the type and quality of study methodologies varying. Research was rarely underpinned by theory. As such, no consensus was reached in drawing together the findings but the direction of future research needed to address these issues is discussed. Further research should focus on developing the literature using an appropriate theoretical underpinning in order to better understand the research that has begun further afield.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Goad
- Department of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - K Gleeson
- Department of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - S Jackson
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
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49
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Panza GA, Armstrong LE, Taylor BA, Puhl RM, Livingston J, Pescatello LS. Weight bias among exercise and nutrition professionals: a systematic review. Obes Rev 2018; 19:1492-1503. [PMID: 30176183 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Obesity affects approximately one-third of American adults. Recent evidence suggests that weight bias may be pervasive among both exercise and nutrition professionals working with adults who have obesity. However, the published literature on this topic is limited. This review aimed to (i) systematically review existing literature examining weight bias among exercise and nutrition professionals; (ii) discuss the implications of this evidence for exercise and nutrition professionals and their clients; (iii) address gaps and limitations of this literature; and (iv) identify future research directions. Of the 31 studies that met the criteria for this review, 20 examined weight bias among exercise professionals, of which 17 (85%) found evidence of weight bias among professionals practicing physical therapy (n = 4), physical education (n = 8) and personal/group fitness training (n = 5). Of 11 studies examining weight bias among nutrition professionals, eight (73%) found evidence of weight bias. These findings demonstrate fairly consistent evidence of weight bias among exercise and nutrition professionals. However, the majority of studies were cross-sectional (90%). Given that weight bias may compromise quality of care and potentially reinforce weight gain and associated negative health consequences in patients with obesity, it is imperative for future work to examine the causes and consequences of weight bias within exercise and nutrition professions using more rigorous study designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Panza
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.,Department of Cardiology, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - L E Armstrong
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - B A Taylor
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.,Department of Cardiology, Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - R M Puhl
- Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, USA.,Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - J Livingston
- Department of Research Services, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - L S Pescatello
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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50
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Jachyra P, Anagnostou E, Knibbe TJ, Petta C, Cosgrove S, Chen L, Capano L, Moltisanti L, McPherson AC. Weighty Conversations: Caregivers', Children's, and Clinicians' Perspectives and Experiences of Discussing Weight-Related Topics in Healthcare Consultations. Autism Res 2018; 11:1500-1510. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Jachyra
- Bloorview Research Institute; Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital; Toronto Ontario
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario
| | - Evdokia Anagnostou
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Department of Paediatrics; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario
| | | | - Catharine Petta
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital; Toronto Ontario
| | - Susan Cosgrove
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital; Toronto Ontario
| | - Lorry Chen
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital; Toronto Ontario
| | - Lucia Capano
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital; Toronto Ontario
| | | | - Amy C. McPherson
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario
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