The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for APCOI (the Portuguese Association Against Childhood Obesity) and its dedication to advancing education and empathy for individuals living with obesity. A key highlight of the year was the release and subsequent promotion of the groundbreaking book, Mum, What is Obesity?. Authored as a collaborative effort between APCOI, the European Coalition for People Living with Obesity (ECPO), and the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO), the book represents more than just an educational tool; it is the foundation of a patient-led movement.
Promoting Mum, What is Obesity? Across Europe
Over the last six months of 2024, ECPO’s representative for Portugal, Mário Silva, took on the crucial task of promoting the book across Europe. His efforts aimed to inspire meaningful dialogue and action among diverse audiences, including patients, families, caregivers, teachers, healthcare professionals, advocates, and policymakers. By emphasizing education and fostering empathy, the initiative seeks to elevate awareness and address the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals living with obesity.
A Platform at the Patient Summit for Multiple Diseases
In November, Mário had the honor of presenting this initiative at the prestigious Patient Summit for Multiple Diseases in Stockholm, Sweden. The event provided a unique platform to highlight how Mum, What is Obesity? is contributing to reshaping narratives around obesity and creating a ripple effect in communities.
Mário’s keynote address at the summit shed light on the primary obstacles faced by people living with obesity, including:
- Stigma and Bias in Healthcare: Many individuals experience prejudice within healthcare settings, which undermines their ability to access appropriate care and support.
- Limited Access to Specialized Care: This challenge is particularly pronounced in countries with fewer resources, where the availability of obesity-focused medical services remains inadequate.
- Inconsistent Policies Across Europe: Public health campaigns often fail to consider the needs of individuals already living with obesity, resulting in fragmented and ineffective approaches.
- Mental Health Impacts: The psychological toll of obesity and the social stigma surrounding it necessitate better mental health support and social networks.
A Movement Towards Empowerment and Change
The efforts surrounding Mum, What is Obesity? reflect a broader vision: empowering communities to foster supportive environments for individuals affected by obesity. By targeting schools, the media, and policymakers, APCOI, ECPO, and EASO are driving crucial conversations to dismantle stigma and advocate for policies that prioritize inclusion and care.
The Patient Summit for Multiple Diseases served as a pivotal moment in this journey, amplifying the voices of those living with obesity and spotlighting the need for systemic change.
Looking Ahead
As 2024 comes to a close, APCOI and its collaborators remain steadfast in their mission to build a more empathetic and informed society. By continuing to promote initiatives like Mum, What is Obesity? and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, they are paving the way for a future where individuals living with obesity are met with understanding, respect, and equitable access to care.