You’re Not Alone
Understanding Obesity Matters
Obesity is a chronic disease that impacts 40% of American adults. Knowing the factors that influence it can help you take informed steps toward better health.1
What is Obesity?
Obesity is a long-term, but manageable disease. Obesity happens when a high level of body fat affects your overall health.2-4
Did You Know?
Genetics
Habits
(Behavioral)
Environment
(Sociocultural)
Resources For Obesity Care
These one-page posters are designed to give you at-a-glance information you can download, print, or share with coworkers and family members.
What Happens When People Who Struggle With Their Weight Decide to Take Action?
Watch the short videos below to hear stories from real people in their own words.
Meet Andre.
Andre’s type 2 diabetes was impacted by his weight. Learn about his turning point to take control of his weight.
Meet Andre.
Andre struggled with his weight. Learn how he changed his habits to lose weight.
Meet Jane.
Jane struggled with weight loss. Learn how she took action and set personalized goals to improve her health.
Meet Jon.
Jon experienced social stigma for his weight. Learn how he overcame internal and social biases by accessing medical care.
How Can Workplaces and Unions Provide Support to Employees?
Watch the short videos below to hear from real leaders in their own words.
How Might Obesity Impact Your Health?
32% of people with obesity also have moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea, which could impact your overall health.6-8
Learn More With the Obesity Toolkit
The toolkit includes:
- Information about the causes of obesity
- Practical tips on how to recognize and address weight bias in the workplace
- Tips on how to work with your HCP to create personalized obesity care plan
- Actionable questions to ask your employer, union representative, and insurance provider to advocate for improved obesity care
Looking For More Information?
The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.
References: 1. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db508.htm (Accessed April 8, 2026). 2. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/php/about/index.html (Accessed April 8, 2026). 3. https://www.obesityaction.org/education-support/learn-about-obesity/causes/ (Accessed April 8, 2026). 4. https://stop.publichealth. gwu.edu/understanding-obesity (Accessed April 8, 2026). 5. https://www.obesityaction.org/education-support/learn-about-obesity/common-myths/ (Accessed April 8, 2026). 6. Messineo L, et al. Sleep Med Rev. 2024;78:101996. 7. Jean-Louis G, et al. J Clin Sleep Med . 2008;4(3):261-272. 8. Shahar E, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2001;163(1):19-25. 9. Khan SS, et al. JAMA Cardiol. 2018;3(4):280-287.