#None #Obesity Action Coalition #CMS Proposed Rule #Stop Obesity Alliance

Obesity Care Week 2025: A Week of Advocacy and Commitment to Care

As the curtains fall on Obesity Care Week (OCW) 2025, stakeholders are taking a moment to assess the significant strides made in promoting awareness and advocacy for obesity care. This year’s theme, "Commit to Care," has not only resonated well with participants across the globe but has also spurred action towards making obesity care more accessible and compassionate.

A Global Emphasis on Change

During this impactful week, thousands of individuals from various backgrounds came together, participating in discussions, sharing valuable resources, and pushing for essential policy changes. Among the highlights was a concerted effort to support the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed rule, aimed at expanding coverage for FDA-approved obesity medications.

Joe Nadglowski, President and CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC), expressed his enthusiasm about the participation in OCW 2025, stating, "The response has been inspiring. We've seen countless individuals raise their voices to advocate for advancing obesity care. But it can't stop here. The work must continue year-round." This sentiment encapsulates a growing recognition that tackling obesity warrants a sustained commitment beyond one week of advocacy.

Despite the staggering statistics indicating that more than 42% of U.S. adults and 19% of youth are affected by obesity, there is alarming evidence that this condition remains largely undertreated. Research shows that only four in ten patients receive appropriate weight counseling from healthcare professionals. This discrepancy underlines the urgent need for continued education and resources to combat obesity stigma while expanding access to evidence-based treatment options.

The Path Forward: Encouraging Continued Engagement

As Obesity Care Week 2025 wraps up, the OCW team stresses the importance of ongoing public involvement. They invite individuals to partake in the "Commit to Care" Pledge at ObesityCareWeek.org to maintain momentum and keep the advocacy efforts alive throughout the year. By pledging, participants not only commit to advocating for their own health but also contribute to a larger movement aimed at fostering a supportive community for those navigating obesity.

OCW has garnered support from several founding champions such as the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC), Strategies to Overcome and Prevent (STOP) Obesity Alliance, and The Obesity Society (TOS), among others. Over 160 supporting organizations are rallying behind the cause, each bringing their unique resources and insights to the table. Major sponsors contributing to this initiative include Eli Lilly and Company, Novo Nordisk, and Regeneron, showcasing the coalition's strong backing and commitment.

About Obesity Care Week

Initiated in 2015, Obesity Care Week serves as a global platform to elevate understanding and awareness of obesity while advocating for access to respectful and effective care. With each passing year, it aims to challenge misconceptions about obesity and highlight the necessity for compassionate healthcare practices that accommodate the unique needs of individuals affected by this condition.

Conclusion

In sum, Obesity Care Week 2025 has underscored a collective commitment to elevating the discourse around obesity and expanding access to much-needed care. By fostering ongoing dialogue and encouraging advocacy, the campaign has reinforced the notion that the journey towards comprehensive obesity management is continuous and requires the unwavering support of communities around the globe. As the initiative looks to the future, it is clear that this movement possesses the potential to transform lives by bridging the gap in care and understanding.