Rockville, MD — With obesity rates rising and millions of Americans still unable to access comprehensive, evidence-based treatment, The Obesity Society (TOS) is using Obesity Care Week 2026 to spotlight obesity as a serious, chronic disease and to emphasize the importance of expanding access to care.

Obesity Care Week (March 2-6) is a coordinated national effort that brings together researchers, clinicians, patient advocates, policymakers, and industry leaders to address one of the most pressing and persistently misunderstood public health challenges of our time. The initiative elevates the science of obesity, challenges harmful misconceptions, and reinforces the importance of long-term, comprehensive medical management.

“As scientific understanding of obesity continues to advance, healthcare systems, coverage policies, and public perception must evolve alongside it,” said Jackie Stephens, PhD, FTOS, President of The Obesity Society. “Obesity Care Week is an opportunity to bridge the gap between research and real-world care to ensure that individuals living with obesity have access to treatment that is grounded in evidence, delivered with dignity, and supported by policies that reflect the seriousness of this disease.”

Obesity affects more than 40% of U.S. adults and is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and other serious health conditions. Decades of research demonstrate that obesity is a complex, multifactorial, chronic disease influenced by biology, environment, and social determinants of health. Yet individuals living with obesity frequently encounter stigma, fragmented care, and limited insurance coverage for clinically proven treatments.

Obesity Care Week serves as an important moment to align science, clinical care, and public understanding. By elevating research and expert perspectives, the campaign reinforces that effective obesity treatment must be grounded in evidence, delivered with compassion, and supported by healthcare systems and policies that improve access.

As part of this year’s campaign, The Obesity Society is encouraging healthcare professionals, advocates, policymakers, and members of the public to take the Commit to Care Pledge, a collective commitment to support accessible, affordable, respectful, and compassionate care for individuals affected by obesity. By taking the pledge, participants affirm their dedication to raising awareness about the challenges of obesity as a chronic disease, advocating for policies that expand access to effective, evidence-based treatment, treating individuals with dignity and free from stigma or bias, and fostering meaningful conversations about health and well-being.

As the leading scientific organization dedicated to the study, prevention, and treatment of obesity, The Obesity Society plays a central role in advancing research, informing clinical guidelines, and elevating evidence in policy and healthcare discussions. Throughout Obesity Care Week, TOS will amplify research insights that inform prevention strategies, clinical best practices, innovative treatments, and policies designed to improve long-term health outcomes.

To learn more about Obesity Care Week or take the pledge to support improved obesity care, visit www.obesitycareweek.org.