| | | | | Happy Holidays from all of us here at the Obesity Action Coalition! As we wrap up the year, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey we've taken together in 2023. We want to take a moment to celebrate our accomplishments, express gratitude for the support we've received, and look forward to the continued progress we can achieve together. We thank each and every one of you for being a part of the OAC Community. We hope you have a warm and happy Season of Giving with your loved ones! | | | | | | | | | | Celebrating the Power of the OAC Community Here at the OAC, we believe in the power of individuals to drive change. When you support our cause, you become a part of something bigger – a powerful force working to create a world where everyone can access the care, understanding, and support they need. This Giving Season, we ask you to join us in unleashing 'The Power of Change, the Power of You.' Your support is an investment in the changing of lives, the reshaping of health policies and the empowerment of countless individuals. Plus, the Obesity Action Coalition National Board of Directors is challenging the OAC Community to donate to support the OAC. They have committed to matching donations, dollar-for-dollar, throughout the season. Together, we can make a profound impact on the lives of millions of people affected by obesity and work towards a healthier world for all. Give today. | | | | | | | | | | | | The OAC’s GivingTuesday Week in Washington D.C. The Obesity Action Coalition and some of our dedicated advocates headed to Washington, D.C., for a jam-packed week of activities! From engaging with policymakers to advocating for better access to obesity care, the OAC and our Community spent the Week of GivingTuesday elevating and empowering people affected by obesity. Read the recap. | | Community Support: OAC’s Fresh Perspectives on Navigating Festive Feasts and Family Stress In this episode of Fresh Perspectives, the OAC chats with clinical health psychologist Dr. Robyn Pashby about navigating everyday stressors that often accompany the holidays to help us understand how to have a healthy and enjoyable season. Dr. Pashby discusses how holiday stress and family dynamics can impact eating habits, as well as how to cope with it and balance holiday festivities with your health goals. Watch now. | | Media Empathy Foundation Report Highlights Weight Stigma in Media and Calls for Change A recent report by the Media Empathy Foundation examined the widespread problem of weight stigma in the media. The study found that people with higher body weight often face negative stereotypes, body shaming, and exclusion from important roles in TV and other media. The report called, "Weight Stigma and Media: Assessing the Impact," highlights the harmful effects of these stereotypes and stresses the importance of showing more inclusive and respectful portrayals in all types of media. Read the report. | | National Poll on Healthy Aging Shows Most Older Adults Think Medicare Should Cover Anti-obesity Medications According to new results from the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, most older adults (about 83%) believe that health insurance should cover medications that help people manage their weight. Additionally, 76% of those surveyed think that Medicare, which currently does not cover anti-obesity medications, should include them. These new insights demonstrate the importance of passing the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA), a bill that will give Medicare-eligible Americans greater access to obesity healthcare services, treatments and providers. Take action now to help push TROA over the finish line. | | OAC Educational Resources Are Available by Request! The OAC is proud to offer unbiased, science-based education to support individuals along their weight and health journey. To make these resources accessible to all, we’ve produced a wide variety of free print educational materials available to anyone who requests them. Our brochures include our Understanding Obesity Series with details on obesity, childhood obesity and treatment options. We also offer comprehensive brochures on Understanding Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes and Understanding Prediabetes and Excess Weight. You can order these materials free of cost for yourself or a loved one, or for a small fee, in bulk for patients or your community. Request resources. | | | | | | Empathy in Practice: A Physician’s Journey Into Obesity Medicine This month, we spotlight Dr. Leslie Golden, a passionate obesity medicine physician and OAC Member whose personal experience with obesity fueled her mission to provide compassionate and holistic care with the mantra that a person’s weight should never define their self-worth. Read Dr. Golden's story. | | | | | | | | | | | Thank You, Bariatric Advantage, For Supporting OAC’s Chairman’s Council We are pleased to share that Bariatric Advantage has joined the OAC's Chairman Council! We strive to partner with industry leaders who share our mission of supporting and empowering individuals in their health journeys. The OAC welcomes organizations or companies who wish to join our highest level of OAC Membership and receive maximum benefits. Our Chairman’s Council is an excellent way to give back to the cause and play an integral role in making the world a better place for people with obesity. Learn more about OAC’s Chairman’s Council. | | | | | | | | | Obesity Action Coalition 4511 North Himes Ave., Suite 250 | Tampa, Florida 33614 (800) 717-3117 | [email protected] | | | The Obesity Action Coalition is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to elevating and empowering individuals affected by obesity through education, advocacy and support. We work to raise awareness of and eliminate weight bias and discrimination in healthcare, education, media and the workplace; fight to improve access to science-based treatment and care of obesity for those who choose to seek it; and provide support through education and community events. | | | | | | | | |