OPEN (Obesity Policy Engagement Network)

'Obesity is a serious chronic, relapsing disease and one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. It is estimated that 1 in 5 adults will be living with obesity by 2025 worldwide. This #WorldObesityDay the @OpenPolicyEngagementNetwork(OPEN) is launching a new White Paper ‘The need for a strategic, system-wide approach to obesity care’. The paper outlines recent results from OPEN’s global survey of healthcare professionals and healthcare decision makers across 8 countries which looked to uncover the current level of knowledge and perceptions of obesity and how this impacts decision making and delivery of care. The OPEN Working Group are calling for action to improve policy and practices for the benefit of those living with obesity. To learn more and to access the full whitepaper, please visit https://buff.ly/3V12Qbd #Obesity #ObesityPolicy #WorldObesityDay Don't forget to register to join us on March 7th for our free webinar, ‘Closing the gaps in obesity care: The need for a strategic system-wide approach’. Register here:https://buff.ly/48DXQMW

How are current perceptions of obesity influencing the way people living with obesity receive care and what can we do to improve the situation? We interviewed three global experts on the matter, following the recently?published 'Perceptions of Obesity Among Healthcare Professionals and Policy Makers in 2023: Results of the Global OPEN Survey' in Wiley's Obesity, Science and Practice journal. Key findings revealed: -Only a quarter of?healthcare professionals consider obesity to be a chronic disease.? -Less than half of them reported that obesity was recorded as a chronic disease in patients’ medical records.? -More than half of patients thought that obesity is not considered an issue and could be treated with diet and exercise alone Watch the full episode: https://lnkd.in/dBiM2Bgz John Dixon Rohana Abdul Ghani

Following findings from our global survey in 2023, we are pleased to share our manuscript 'Perceptions of Obesity Among Healthcare Professionals and Policy Makers in 2023: Results of the Global OPEN Survey' was published in the Obesity Science & Practice journal. Results showed many healthcare professionals do not consider obesity a disease, which hinders initiation of appropriate care, and also highlight challenges in obesity management, including gaps in obesity guidelines and accessibility to healthcare. Thank you to our authors John Dixon, Rohana Abdul Ghani and Paolo Sbraccia as well as all reviewers for their contributions. We hope these findings help guide education and outreach by health authorities and healthcare professionals. ?https://lnkd.in/eW6s6rcr?

Following from last month's World Mental Health Day we wanted to highlight the essential link between mental health and physical well-being—an intersection particularly evident in the multifactorial nature of obesity. Mental health challenges can exacerbate weight management struggles, yet these connections are frequently overlooked in public health approaches. To truly support those living with obesity, national efforts must prioritize mental health alongside other obesity drivers. By integrating mental health considerations into obesity management strategies, we can promote more holistic, effective approaches. Explore our latest report to learn more about obesity prevention and management: https://buff.ly/3yzIpZR

This World Diabetes Day 2024, we are spotlighting the crucial link between obesity and type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that managing obesity within frameworks that address it as a #NCD could help address over 230 complications of obesity, including up to 80% of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Discover how a transdisciplinary approach can create impactful change in our latest white paper: https://buff.ly/3yzIpZR

Listen to experts as they explore care gaps and strategies for effective obesity management. https://buff.ly/3ZVmY14

One of the ongoing challenges in obesity management is the lack of a transdisciplinary, person-centered approach among healthcare professionals. Many HCPs cite multiple obstacles to coordinated care. Learn more: https://buff.ly/3yzIpZR

Despite numerous strategies addressing obesity, a more optimised approach is urgently needed. If current trends persist, both the prevalence of obesity and the associated economic costs will continue to climb, placing a growing burden on healthcare systems and societies. The World Health Organization recognised obesity as a disease in 1948 and redefined it as a chronic disease, with the European Union following in 2021. However, most national policies still view obesity primarily as a risk factor for other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, rather than addressing it as a chronic disease in its own right. To make meaningful progress, stakeholders must advocate for the inclusion of obesity in national NCD frameworks, ensuring early diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. Read our report to learn more about how we can secure the prioritization of obesity in health systems worldwide: https://buff.ly/4dvvBCQ

The current approach to obesity often overlooks its complexity and can have detrimental effects. Stigma and misconceptions, like viewing obesity as solely a personal failing, contribute to psychological distress and worse health outcomes. This stigma can lead to healthcare discrimination, delayed treatment, and worsened conditions, impacting quality of life and socio-economic status. We need a new, evidence-based approach to tackle these issues and improve outcomes for those affected. Read our report for detailed recommendations: https://buff.ly/4dvvBCQ

Listen to Professor John Dixon (Health Innovation, Swinburne University) and other experts as they discuss gaps in care and strategies for effective obesity management. https://buff.ly/3VayRx4