“The use of the O-word in the title indicates, right away, that fatness and fat bodies are viewed as a problem to be eradicated. At this point in time, we have mountains of data to support the fact that the correlation between fatness and health problems is overwhelmingly due to the real-life impacts of anti-fat oppression, rather than fat itself as something inherently harmful. With all the research and data available, it is irresponsible at best – and, in many cases, medically negligent – to pathologize fatness as a problem that needs to be solved. This only perpetuates the very anti fat narratives that threaten the well-being of fat patients in the first place. ”
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, you can learn more about various care options here. EDRC provides support groups and maintains a comprehensive directory of specialized treatment providers in the Bay Area. You can also support EDRC’s mission further by making a tax deductible donation.
