Dr. Angela Fitch on Breaking Down Obesity Stigmas and Advancing Treatment
We have to get to the point where that's not the case, that this is just a treatment for a disease, like any other treatment for any other disease. And so that's what we have to get away from, because while we know some people can do that with their lifestyle changes, and we don't know why that is.
Imagine a world where obesity is treated with the same respect and understanding as any other chronic disease. Dr. Angela Fitch is on a mission to make that a reality. In this episode of 'Charged: Stories from the Women Leading Health Care', Dr. Fitch opens up about the evolving landscape of obesity treatment and her efforts to shift perceptions.
From a field once shrouded in silence, obesity medicine has now become a dynamic area of healthcare, thanks in part to advocates like Dr. Fitch. Dr. Fitch passionately believes in creating patient-focused treatment programs that not only address weight loss but also build supportive communities. She emphasizes the need to re-educate both patients and providers, recognizing obesity as a chronic disease rather than a personal failure.
This shift in perspective is crucial for dismantling the stigma and misinformation that often surround obesity. The episode delves into the importance of personalized medicine and a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach in treating obesity. Dr. Fitch discusses how cognitive behavioral therapy and positive thinking can help patients celebrate small victories and maintain their confidence throughout their weight loss journey. She also highlights the detrimental effects of weight loss shows on metabolism and underscores the necessity for accessible medical interventions.
Legislation plays a key role in supporting effective obesity treatment, and Dr. Fitch advocates for policies that back patient care and education. Her insights offer a fresh perspective on how we can collectively improve lives by changing the narrative around obesity. Tune in to hear Dr. Angela Fitch's inspiring journey and her vision for a more compassionate and effective approach to obesity treatment.