Obesity is a risk factor for a variety of diseases, including heart disease and stroke. It is also recognized as a chronic disease. Like hypertension and diabetes, we must treat and provide access to preventative measures for patients with obesity. Through partnership with Obesity Canada, the University of Ottawa Heart Institute has taken important steps toward developing a safe and equitable environment for cardiac patients.
As an organization, we are changing the conversation about weight and health, moving away from weight loss and toward focusing on healthy behaviours. Our goal is to educate healthcare providers and patients to reduce weight bias in our healthcare system. Our belief is everyone, regardless of size or weight, deserves the same level of care. Weight and body size are not measures of health.
We are here to listen and provide resources.
Please take a moment to view our video below on the changes we are making, and how you can get the conversation started with your own healthcare provider.
Why it’s not about weight: Understanding obesity at the Heart Institute
Why it’s not about weight: understanding obesity (for healthcare providers)