Framing Obesity: The Role of the Research System in Perpetuating or Challenging Weight Stigma

This commentary highlights the critical role of research systems and framing in either perpetuating or challenging weight stigma. Despite growing recognition of weight stigma as a public health issue, research discourse can reinforce harmful narratives through weight-centric models, stigmatizing language, and narrow focus on weight. We call for inclusive, transdisciplinary, and co-designed research that centers lived experience and prioritizes health outcomes over weight loss. We advocate for systemic changes across research funding, ethics, publication, and dissemination practices to reduce stigma and promote equity.