Obesity Pillars Roundtable: Obesity and Diversity

BACKGROUND: The clinical implications of obesity differ, depending on race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. METHODS: This roundtable discussion included 4 obesity specialists with expertise in the clinical management of obesity among diverse populations including Blacks, Hispanics/Latinos, Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender-Questioning (LGBTQ) individuals, and Native-Americans. RESULTS: One of the first obstacles towards overcoming disparities in managing obesity and its complications among diverse populations is understanding applicable terminology. This includes categorization terminology relative to Native Americans (for the purpose of assessing culture and possibly genetic predispositions), understanding the differences between Black African Americans and Black Africans, understanding the differences between the terms Hispanic and Latinx, and basic concepts behind different pronouns applicable to Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender-Questioning (LGBTQ) individuals. After being better able to grasp the input from patients with diverse backgrounds, universal obesity assessment and management principles can be then tailored utilizing a patient-centered approach. CONCLUSION: Understanding the unique genetic, culture, and terminology regarding patients of different races, ethnicities, and sexual orientation may help clinicians better engage patients in managing obesity via utilizing a more patient-centered approach.