A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Minnesota highlights how weight-related stigma significantly affects women’s experiences in health care settings. Published in the Medical Research Archives, the study reveals that stigma surrounding weight is a critical barrier to accessing necessary medical care, often leading women to avoid seeking help altogether.
The research team surveyed over 300 participants, focusing exclusively on women due to their higher rates of experiencing weight stigma compared to men. According to lead author Virginia Ramseyer Winter, an associate professor in the College of Education and Human Development School of Social Work, understanding the reasons behind health care avoidance is essential. She stated, “It is critical for us to know why people are avoiding health care because they could be avoiding or delaying lifesaving preventive care.”
The findings indicate that weight stigma not only discourages women from seeking care but also highlights the need for systemic changes to address this issue. Co-author Elizabeth O’Neill, an associate professor of social work at Washburn University, emphasized the importance of implementing weight-inclusive practices. “These factors are ones that health care systems and providers have direct control over and can remedy to improve health care experiences and health outcomes,” she said.
The research team identified specific shaming triggers that women encounter during medical visits, which can discourage them from returning for necessary care. Their goal is to use these insights to inform policy and procedural changes across health care systems, fostering environments that are more welcoming and supportive to all patients, regardless of their weight.
As the study progresses, the researchers hope to catalyze discussions around the implementation of strategies that promote inclusivity in health care settings. These changes could lead to improved health care satisfaction and increased utilization among women who have previously avoided seeking assistance due to stigma.
The findings represent a significant step toward understanding and addressing the impact of weight stigma on health care access. As Virginia Ramseyer Winter noted, it is crucial to tackle these barriers to ensure that all individuals can receive the preventive and critical care they need.
For more information, see Virginia Winter’s study, “Exploring Potential Solutions to Weight Stigma in Healthcare: A Mixed Methods Study,” published in the Medical Research Archives in 2025. The study can be accessed via DOI: 10.18103/mra.v13i10.7010.
