The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is building the Lived Experience Research Collaborative (LERC) to transform how obesity research is developed, implemented, and evaluated by centering the voices of individuals with lived experience. Grounded in a phased, community-engaged approach, this initiative will identify priorities and co-develop a person-centered research agenda to guide the obesity field through 2036.

Recent years have seen growing recognition that people with lived experience of disease should be involved in health policy, research, and practice. Including lived experience in research enhances clarity, quality, and relevance and ensures alignment with community needs. This approach boosts treatment acceptability, trust and health outcomes.