While the comic strip is hilarious (because it’s ridiculous), it’s not far from some of the experiences my patients have shared. I’ve had powerful conversations with patients about their journeys navigating healthcare in a larger body, and the stories I’ve heard have been both heart-breaking and eye-opening.

At Laneways, we recognise the importance of informed decision-making in managing the chronic health condition of obesity. Our latest blog explores recent findings from the Bariatric Surgery Registry (BSR), which provides valuable data on the safety and effectiveness of metabolic-bariatric surgery in Australia. The BSR highlights key outcomes, including low complication rates, significant weight loss, and improvements in diabetes management among patients.

We also acknowledge that individuals can live in larger bodies and be healthy and well without having obesity. The term “obesity” is used strictly as a medical condition and never as a judgment on a person’s physical shape or worth. Read more to discover the insights from the BSR data and their implications for patient care at Laneways.

Explore the new consensus statement from The Lancet Commission on the Definition and Diagnosis of Clinical Obesity, which aims to redefine obesity classification. Endorsed by the World Obesity Federation, this statement distinguishes between pre-clinical obesity and clinical obesity, providing a clearer framework for diagnosis.

Discover why addressing weight stigma in Australian healthcare is crucial, with high rates of overweight and obesity affecting two-thirds of adults, and find out how fostering inclusivity can help bridge the gap for equitable care despite implementation challenges.

Explore the experiences of individuals living with obesity in healthcare settings and hear insights into what they wish healthcare professionals knew to improve their care, addressing issues such as stigma, weight measurement sensitivity, equipment suitability, and focusing on the presenting issue rather than weight at first contact. Through understanding and addressing these considerations, healthcare professionals can create a more supportive and inclusive environment, ultimately improving patient outcomes and encouraging individuals to seek the care they need.

Explore our guide to embracing enjoyable exercise for holistic well-being, prioritising enjoyment
and sustainability over weight loss goals, and discover how physiotherapy
services utilise motivational interviewing and evidence-based habit formation
techniques to empower you in cultivating a lasting commitment to physical activity and overall well-being.