Marriage triples risk of obesity in men but not women, study reveals
GuardianMAR 3
The lack of a precise definition of obesity exacerbates issues such as misdiagnosis, unequal access to healthcare, and stigmatization of those affected. A more nuanced approach to diagnosing obesity — one that takes into account not just size but the underlying physiological and metabolic factors that contribute to the condition — can ensure fairer, more targeted treatments while reducing the societal burdens of stigma and misdiagnosis.
The "obesity first" approach certainly highlights a transformative shift in healthcare, emphasizing the treatment of obesity as the root cause of many chronic conditions. As weight-loss medications gain popularity and the medical community moves toward recognizing obesity as a treatable disease rather than a cosmetic concern, policymakers must address the financial and structural barriers to ensure these life-changing treatments are available to those in need.
Cultural attitudes toward obesity differ significantly between genders, with society being more accepting of overweight men while women face greater stigmatization. This leads married women to take more active steps to manage their weight through increased physical activity. Moreover, single men work harder to maintain their appearance while seeking relationships, and the correlation between marriage and male obesity stems from a reduced incentive to stay fit after finding a partner.