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Weight-based discrimination and the intersection with other forms of discrimination on self-report health outcomes among Canadians: A population-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

Little is known of the association between weight-based discrimination (WBD), and the intersection with other experiences of discrimination, and health outcomes. We investigated the association between WBD only, WBD and other forms of discrimination, other only, compared to no discrimination, and presence of self-reported unmet healthcare needs, satisfaction with healthcare, and general health. We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the 2013 Canadian Community Health Survey (n=18,979) among a representative sample of Canadians aged 12 and up. Odds ratios (OR) were estimated from logistic regression adjusting for age, sex, and BMI. Results were also stratified by sex and BMI. Compared to no discrimination, people who experienced WBD only (OR=1.72, 95% CI=1.03-2.88), WBD and other discrimination (OR=2.71, 95% CI=1.76-4.18), and other discrimination only (OR=2.29, 95% CI=1.98-2.66) all had increased unmet healthcare needs. Similar, strong statistically significant associations were observed for dissatisfaction with healthcare, and poor general health. These associations were stronger among women and higher weight individuals. Our results suggest that experiences of WBD—alone and with other forms of discrimination—are associated with poor self-reported health outcomes. There is a need to address the impact of weight and other forms of stigma on healthcare access, quality, and general health.

Authors

Nicula M; Kitchen P; Duncan L; Anderson L

Publisher

Weight Stigma Conference

Publication Date

June 17, 2024

DOI

10.31076/2024.p14

Name of conference

Proceedings of the 10th Annual International Weight Stigma Conference

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