A Call to Reconceptualize Obesity Treatment in Service of Health Equity: Review of Evidence and Future Directions

Abstract

Purpose of Review: Rates of obesity and associated comorbidities are higher among Black and Latino adults compared to white adults. We sought to provide an overview of both structural and individual factors contributing to obesity inequities and synthesize available evidence regarding treatment outcomes in Black and Latino adults, with an eye towards informing future directions. Recent Findings: Obesity disparities are influenced by myriad systemic issues, yet the vast majority of interventions target individual-level factors only, and most behavioral treatments fail to target drivers beyond eating and physical activity. Extant treatments are not equally accessible, affordable, or effective among Black and Latino adults compared with white counterparts. Summary: Asset-based, culturally relevant interventions that target the root causes of obesity and address intersectional stress—designed in partnership with intended beneficiaries—are urgently needed. Treatment trials must improve enrollment of Black and Latino adults and report treatment outcomes by race and ethnicity.