About Us

The Story of the OAC

About the OAC

The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is a more than 70,000 member-strong 501(c)(3) National nonprofit organization dedicated to giving a voice to the individual affected by the disease of obesity and helping individuals along their journey toward better health through education, advocacy and support. Our core focuses are to raise awareness and improve access to the prevention and treatment of obesity, provide evidence-based education on obesity and its treatments, fight to eliminate weight bias and discrimination, elevate the conversation of weight and its impact on health and offer a community of support for the individual affected.

History of the OAC

During a meeting of legislators, a congressperson asked the question – “Who represents patients who are affected by obesity?” It was then that a legislator pointed out a serious need – a group whose only focus is on those affected by obesity. With this, the OAC was formed in 2005 with the goal of building a national coalition of those who are living with and/or affected by obesity.

OAC Membership

As a nonprofit organization, the OAC exists to serve the needs of every individual affected by obesity. The OAC is a membership organization, and membership is a vital component in building a Coalition of those affected. Membership is not required in the OAC, however it is strongly encouraged and is often the first step toward getting involved in making an impact in obesity. Currently, the OAC has more than 70,000 active members and serves more than 1 million individuals each year.

OAC’s Position

As an education and advocacy organization, the OAC is involved with all issues related to obesity. As such, the OAC has several stated positions on various aspects in obesity. The OAC’s position statements allow our constituents to know where the OAC stands and how our organization is working to improve the lives of those who are affected. To view the OAC’s position statements, please click here.

OAC Vision Statement

It is the vision of the OAC to support, through education and advocacy, the creation of a society in which:

  • All individuals are treated with respect and without discrimination or bias regardless of their size or weight;
  • Those affected by the disease of obesity have the right to access safe and effective treatment options; and
  • All individuals understand that when it comes to health, Your Weight Matters.

Mission of the OAC

The mission of the OAC is to elevate and empower those affected by obesity through education, advocacy and support.