Experiences of weight stigma before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional analysis

This study used a cross-sectional survey design to explore the levels and manifestations of weight stigma experienced by individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it compared to pre-pandemic levels and understanding how stigmatizing experiences have affected health behaviors and healthcare utilization. Adults ages 18-55 completed surveys that assessed weight stigma and discrimination using quantitative and open-ended responses. Participants (<i>N</i> = 88) reported neutral attitudes on measures of weight stigma and moderate weight bias internalization. Weight-based discrimination and interpersonal stigma were lower during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic. Many participants reported experiencing weight stigma from healthcare providers during the pandemic. Over half of higher-weight respondents reported a negative effect of exposure to COVID-19 news and social media "quarantine-15" mentions on feelings about their weight. The high prevalence of weight-related stigma experienced in healthcare settings may lead to healthcare avoidance and should be a target for improved intervention and policy efforts.