Why Should I Advocate? Obesity is a complex disease. The obese and morbidly obese often experience a wide variety of other health conditions (co-morbidities), which include diabetes, heart disease, cancer, sleep apnea and many more. Adding to the challenge, patients are often denied access to much needed medical treatment (such as medically managed weight-loss or bariatric surgery) as some payors and employers still do not recognize obesity and morbid obesity as a disease. The OAC encourages patients to become advocates for change. Patients can impact how others view obesity and impact decision makers. Help us to eliminate the negative stigma associated with this disease, and make sure that obesity is treated as a disease, allowing for increased access to safe and effective medical treatment. Below, please find links to help you get started. For instance, by clicking on Educate Legislators, you will be able to locate your representative and view tips on how to advocate. |
