The International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) has awarded Integrated Health Fellow of IFSO (IH-FIFSO) status to Ken Clare, recognising his long-standing contribution to improving care and advocacy for people living with obesity.
IFSO is one of the leading global professional organisations working in the field of obesity, particularly in metabolic and bariatric surgery. The Integrated Health Fellowship is awarded to members who demonstrate active practice in the field and continued engagement in educational activities supported by IFSO. The recognition highlights individuals who contribute to improving standards of care and collaboration across the multidisciplinary obesity community.
Ken Clare has been a long-time advocate for people living with obesity and is widely recognised for his commitment to ensuring that lived experience is represented within healthcare discussions, policy conversations, and professional education. He is also the former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the European Coalition for People Living with Obesity (ECPO), where he played an important role in strengthening the voice of people living with obesity across Europe.
Commenting on the recognition, Andrea Schroeder said:
“Congratulations to Ken Clare on receiving the Fellow of IFSO-IH award — a special recognition for his outstanding contribution to the care of people living with obesity. Ken’s caring, understanding approach, passionate and tireless advocacy, and ability to inspire others truly sets him apart. Well deserved, Ken.”
Louisa Ells, Co-Director of the Obesity Institute, added:
“We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud of Ken Clare in achieving Integrated Health Fellow of IFSO. This award signifies Ken’s true dedication, passion and contribution to progressing compassionate person-centred obesity care and advocating the voice of lived experience. Huge congratulations Ken on this significant and thoroughly deserved achievement.”
Dimitrios Pournaras, Consultant Surgeon and Council Member of the British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society(BOMSS), also shared his congratulations:
“No one is more deserving of recognition as an Integrated Health Fellow of IFSO than Ken Clare. Through tireless work across multiple fronts, Ken has advanced our understanding of obesity as a disease, championed the patient voice, and elevated the standard of care across the field. We at BOMSS are pleased to have him as a valuable active council member and would like to congratulate Ken on this recognition.”
Speaking about the Fellowship, Ken said:
“I was delighted to be nominated for this by respected peers and thrilled to be announcing it on **World Obesity Day 2026. I continue to enjoy the opportunities membership of IFSO has given me. The last 20 years have seen great developments; I am proudest of playing a role in ensuring the voice of lived experience is heard.”
This recognition highlights the growing importance of including lived experience in discussions around obesity care and reflects the impact that patient advocacy continues to have within the international obesity community.