FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 15, 2026

Obesity Action Coalition and the American Heart Association Announce Collaboration to Support Healthy Living BEYOND Weight Study

Tampa, FL — The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) today announced a new collaboration with the American Heart Association to support recruitment and engagement for the Association’s Healthy Living BEYOND Weight™ Study, which is one of the most inclusive efforts to understand the lived experiences and long-term health outcomes of people living with obesity or those who are overweight.

The Healthy Living BEYOND Weight Study gathers real-world insights from adults living with excess weight or obesity, as well as those using weight management treatments such as medicines, surgery or lifestyle interventions. The nationwide initiative aims to improve care, advance research, and elevate the voices of people living with weight challenges.

“Connecting with the Obesity Action Coalition allows us to reach people whose lived experiences are essential to understanding the real‑world impact of overweight and obesity,” said Mariell Jessup, M.D., FAHA, chief science and medical officer for the American Heart Association. “OAC is a trusted, mission‑driven organization with a strong national community, and their support in sharing information about the American Heart Association’s Healthy Living BEYOND Weight™ Study helps ensure that more people have the opportunity to contribute to research that can improve care for all communities.”

“OAC is a proud collaborator of the American Heart Association’s Healthy Living BEYOND Weight Study,” said Joe Nadglowski, President and CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition. “Our members’ stories are essential to shaping better care and better outcomes for people affected by obesity.”

The Healthy Living BEYOND Weight Study is open to U.S. adults age 18 or older. To learn more or enroll, visit heart.org/GoBEYOND.

About the Obesity Action Coalition
The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is a National nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by obesity through education, advocacy and support. The OAC is the first and only organization of its kind and the nation’s leading voice representing those impacted by obesity. To learn more about our work, please visit obesityaction.org.

For more information please contact:
Gianna Toto
OAC Communications Coordinator
gtoto@obesityaction.org