Advocacy is defined as the act of pleading or arguing in favor of something, such as a cause, idea or policy. Advocacy comes in many forms. The OAC is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to giving a voice to individuals with obesity through education, advocacy and support. The OAC was formed to build a nationwide coalition of individuals to become active advocates and spread the important message of the need for obesity awareness.
Education
- Many individuals are not aware that they are affected by obesity until they are diagnosed with an obesity-related condition, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension and more.
- Healthcare professionals often avoid the conversation of weight with their patients as they fear patient-backlash.
- There are more than 70 medical conditions associated with the disease of obesity.
- Today’s fast-paced environment has led to the adoption of unhealthy behaviors. Behavior, in the case of obesity, relates to food choices, physical activity and efforts to maintain your health.
Advocacy
- The OAC has made hundreds of public policy statements on both the state and federal level to increase access to care for those affected by obesity.
- The OAC has visited the White House multiple times throughout its existence to meet with various administrations to discuss obesity.
- The OAC has met with the FDA on many occasions to advocate for expanded treatment methods.
- In 2008, the OAC held a national obesity awareness event, titled Walk from Obesity – Walk on the Capitol, on the national mall in Washington, DC. Thousands in attendance proudly walked to raise awareness of obesity and the need for increased access to care.
- The OAC has worked with state-based leaders throughout the U.S. to ensure access to care is not limited or eliminated in their state.
Support
- The OAC is a Coalition of individuals affected by obesity. To date, we have more than 59,000 members throughout the United States.
- The voice of those affected is often unheard and unrecognized. The OAC Community helps these voices join together and speak loudly.
The OAC encourages YOU to become an advocate for change and be a part of our Community today! To learn more about advocating, click here.