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. 2026 Jan 12;28(4):2919–2929. doi: 10.1111/dom.70474

Changes in how people living with obesity perceive weight‐related discussions with their healthcare professional: Results from the cross‐sectional online ACTION‐DK 2022 and 2024 studies

Mette Bøgelund 1, Amanda F Rasmussen 1, Pernille Andreassen 2, Per Nielsen 3, Signe Stensen 4, Jens M Bruun 2,5,6,✉
PMCID: PMC12992170  PMID: 41527217

Abstract

Aims

This study investigated changes in how people living with obesity (PwO) perceive weight‐related discussions with healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Denmark from 2022 to 2024, a period marked by shifts in obesity treatment options as well as the broader understanding of obesity.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was conducted among adult PwO in Denmark, building on the 2022 Awareness, Care, and Treatment In Obesity maNagement‐Denmark survey with a few modifications. Data were collected via representative online panels from September to October 2024. Adjusted logistic regression models were performed.

Results

A total of 1005 PwO participated in the 2024 survey, compared to 879 in the 2022 survey. The proportion of PwO discussing weight with HCPs increased significantly from 38% in 2022 to 58% in 2024. The percentage of PwO reporting positive feelings after weight consultations did not change significantly. PwO in 2024 still refrained from discussing weight due to fear of prejudice (23%), previous negative experiences (17%) and the belief that reducing weight was their own responsibility (46%). Subgroup analyses in 2024 revealed that those currently using weight loss medications reported the most positive perceptions of weight‐related discussions with their HCP.

Conclusions

Overall increased engagement of PwO regarding weight‐related discussions with HCPs was observed from 2022 to 2024. However, barriers persist, since some PwO avoid interactions with HCPs due to previous experiences with stigma or the fear of being judged. Continued efforts are essential to address these barriers, enhance HCP education about weight‐related bias, and foster a supportive environment for PwO in healthcare settings.

Keywords: GLP‐1, obesity care, observational study, patient reported outcomes, weight management

1. INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of obesity is increasing globally, raising substantial health concerns. In Denmark, the prevalence of adult obesity increased from 13.6% in 2010 to 18.7% in 2023, with a projected increase to 27% for men and 26% for women by 2030. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 Obesity is influenced by a complex interplay between multiple factors, including genetic predispositions, mental health stressors, income and education levels, social norms, access to healthy food and physical activity, digital influences and public health policies. 7

Obesity is associated with a higher risk of multiple chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer, all of which contribute to elevated mortality rates. People living with obesity (PwO) often experience impairments in physical functioning and mental well‐being, leading to a reduced overall quality of life. 8 , 9 Furthermore, PwO often experience weight‐based stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings by healthcare professionals (HCPs). 10 , 11 Research demonstrates that many HCPs hold biases against PwO, perceiving obesity as a condition determined by lifestyle choices and attributing it to a lack of self‐motivation, compliance and discipline. 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 Existing literature indicates that weight‐based stigma is associated with delayed or inadequate treatment for PwO and with adverse psychosocial outcomes such as heightened stress, depression, avoidance of healthcare settings and increased weight gain. 16 , 17 , 18

International researchers have recently emphasised the necessity of redefining the narrative of obesity, proposing that the prevailing understanding relies on an overly simplistic causal aetiology and employs language that tends to place the burden of responsibility for obesity solely on individuals. 18 , 19 , 20 The existing research highlights the complex, multifaceted nature of obesity, which goes beyond personal lifestyle choices, thereby shifting the perspective from a simplistic to a more nuanced understanding. 21 In recent years, the terminology used to discuss obesity in healthcare settings has evolved significantly. Increasing scientific evidence demonstrates that many PwO prefer person‐first language, such as ‘persons with obesity,’ along with medical terminology for obesity when communicating with HCPs. 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 As a result, current guidelines for HCPs now stress the importance of using respectful and non‐stigmatising language. 22

The last years there has been a shift in both the scientific and public discourse towards obesity treatments beyond behavioural interventions, with a growing focus on weight loss medications, primarily driven by the introduction of glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonists demonstrating overall improved health outcomes. GLP‐1 receptor agonists promote weight loss by enhancing glucose‐dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon release, delaying gastric emptying and reducing appetite via central nervous system pathways. 26 , 27 , 28 , 29

Considering the past few years' developments in the field of obesity, it is essential to evaluate progress in perceptions and experiences among PwO in healthcare settings and to identify areas that require further improvement. Therefore, this Awareness, Care, and Treatment In Obesity maNagement‐Denmark (ACTION‐DK) 2024 study builds on the original ACTION‐DK 2022 and updates how PwO perceive their weight‐related discussions with HCPs.

2. MATERIALS AND METHODS

2.1. Survey design

This study uses data from the cross‐sectional online ACTION‐DK 2024 survey. The ACTION‐DK 2024 survey was an update to the ACTION‐DK 2022 survey, conducted in 2022. For a detailed description of the methodology used in the ACTION‐DK 2022 survey, refer to Vilsbøll et al. 30 The ACTION‐DK 2024 survey was divided into six different sections: (1) motivation for and methods of weight loss, (2) attitudes towards obesity and weight loss, (3) weight loss medications, (4) support structure, (5) interaction between doctor and patient and (6) demographics. Most items were similar to those used in the ACTION‐DK 2022 survey. However, a new section on weight loss medications was developed. The modifications of the 2022 survey to the 2024 context were carried out by the authors of the present study, who are experts in various areas of the obesity field. The survey was pilot tested on a sample of the study population to identify and correct any errors or inconsistencies prior to the final data collection. The questionnaire was programmed in a survey software package, SurveyXact®.

2.2. Study population

Respondents living in Denmark who were ≥18 years and had body mass index (BMI) ≥30.0 kg/m2 based on self‐reported height and weight were eligible for the survey. Respondents who were pregnant or participating in intensive fitness or body building programmes were excluded. Demographic targets to ensure representation of the PwO sample in Denmark with respect to sex, age and geographic location were used in the recruitment process. The recruitment targets were based on data from ‘Health of the Danes—the national health profile 2023.’ 6

2.3. Recruitment and data collection

Recruitment was carried out via Norstat's representative email panels. 31 All potential respondents had given permission to be contacted for research purposes and were invited to complete the survey. Data were collected between September and October 2024 via an online version of the survey. PwO respondents were rewarded (cash) points (equivalent to 1–2 euro) for participation, and HCPs were paid according to the fair market value of time spent.

2.4. Statistical analysis

Since this is a repeated cross‐sectional survey, the analytical approach follows the principles described in Section 3 of the UK Data Service guidance on analysing repeated cross‐sectional data. This explains that repeated cross‐sectional surveys involve different respondents in independent random samples at each time point and that trends over time can be analysed using regression models with survey year included to account for period effects. In line with these recommendations, we analysed independently recruited samples from each survey year and modelled survey year to adjust for temporal differences. 32

Data were summarised using univariate descriptive statistics, including means, medians and frequencies. Logistic regression models were employed to investigate whether the year of data collection served as an independent explanatory variable for the observed outcomes. The primary objective was to assess whether temporal differences could account for variations in responses. All models were adjusted for relevant covariates, including age, sex, BMI classification and the presence of comorbid conditions. Full logistic regression parameters are presented in Table S1. Statistical significance in the adjusted models was indicated using conventional thresholds derived from p‐values (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01), as shown in Section 3.

Stratified subgroup analyses were conducted to compare the history of prescription weight loss medication use among PwO in the 2024 study population. Weight loss medication items were not available in the 2022 survey, thus a comparison between the two study years on this topic was not feasible.

Only data from respondents who completed the survey were included in the analysis, ensuring that no data were missing. All data were processed and analysed using SAS 9.4 and Microsoft Excel.

2.5. Ethical considerations

As this study was not a clinical trial, did not involve direct contact with patients, and did not collect biological samples or identifiable personal information, under Danish legislation it did not require ethical review board approval. 33 All respondents provided electronic informed consent prior to completing the survey. They were informed of the survey's purpose before participation. All respondents were anonymous to the researchers, and no sensitive information was gathered. The respondents could freely choose to opt out of the survey at any point in time. All laws and regulations regarding the management of personal information complied with the European General Data Protection Regulation.

3. RESULTS

3.1. Respondent characteristics

Table 1 shows characteristics of the PwO population from the ACTION‐DK 2022 survey and the ACTION‐DK 2024 survey. For a comprehensive description of the 2022 population, please refer to Vilsbøll et al. 30 A total of 1005 PwO completed the ACTION‐DK 2024 survey. There was a decrease in the proportion of PwO in obesity class I in the 2024 population compared with the 2022 population (from 61% to 51%), with a corresponding increase in those classified as obesity class II (from 21% to 31%).

TABLE 1.

Respondent demographics and characteristics.

PwO in 2022 (n = 879) PwO in 2024 (n = 1005)
Age, years (range) 47 (18–65) 47 (19–65)
Sex, n (%)
Female 440 (50) 504 (50)
Male 439 (50) 501 (50)
BMI classification, n (%)
Obesity class I (30–34.9 kg/m2) 539 (61) 513 (51)
Obesity class II (35–39.9 kg/m2) 182 (21) 305 (31)
Obesity class III (≥40 kg/m2) 158 (18) 181 (19)
Comorbidities
≥1 642 (73) 759 (76)
Depression/anxiety 261 (30) 303 (30)
Hypertension 254 (29) 324 (32)
Hypercholesterolaemia 201 (23) 268 (27)
Osteoarthritis 168 (19) 180 (18)
Type 2 diabetes 98 (11) 134 (13)
Education level
Primary school 78 (9) 74 (7)
High school 86 (10) 110 (11)
Vocational education 249 (28) 318 (32)
Short higher education 92 (10) 119 (12)
Bachelor's degree or equivalent 247 (28) 259 (26)
Master's degree or equivalent 114 (13) 116 (12)
PhD 7 (1) 4 (0.4)
Other/do not know 6 (1) 5 (1)
Geographical location
Capital Region of Denmark 238 (27) 268 (27)
Zealand Region 153 (17) 172 (17)
Southern Denmark Region 202 (23) 232 (23)
Central Denmark Region 202 (23) 233 (23)
North Denmark Region 84 (10) 100 (10)
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Abbreviations: BMI, body mass index; n, number; PwO, people living with obesity.

3.2. Changes in discussions on weight and weight loss with HCPs

The percentage of PwO who had discussed weight with their HCP in the past 5 years increased from 50% in 2022 to 67% in 2024. Similarly, the percentage of PwO who had discussed weight loss with their HCP in the past 5 years increased from 38% in 2022 to 58% in 2024 (Figure 1). Logistic regression analyses confirmed that these increases were statistically significant (p < 0.001). The subgroup analysis showed that PwO currently taking weight loss medication were more likely to have engaged in discussions about weight and weight loss with their HCP in the past 5 years compared to the other medication groups, at rates of 96% and 95%, respectively (p = 0.006 and p = 0.005) (Supporting Information S1: Figure E1).

FIGURE 1.

FIGURE 1

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‘Have you talked about your weight or weight loss with an HCP in the past 5 years?’ 2024, n = 1005; 2022, n = 879. Significance indication: **<0.01. Logistic regressions adjusted for the following variables: Age, sex, body mass index class and the presence of comorbidities. HCP, healthcare professional; PwO, people living with obesity.

3.3. Changes in HCP actions during discussions about weight

Figure 2 illustrates PwO responses regarding the actions taken by their HCP during weight loss discussions, comparing data from 2022 with data from 2024. In 2022, 7% of respondents said their HCP prescribed medication to help them lose weight, compared with 19% in 2024 (p < 0.001). The percentage of respondents who were made aware of such medication by their HCP increased from 6% in 2022 to 16% in 2024 (p < 0.001). Additionally, in 2022, 8% of respondents reported that their HCP considered their treatment wishes and preferences, compared with 14% in 2024 (p = 0.003). Similarly, the percentage of respondents who said their HCP talked to them about the pros and cons of each treatment increased from 10% in 2022 to 16% in 2024 (p = 0.003).

FIGURE 2.

FIGURE 2

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‘What does your HCP do/has your HCP done when you talk/talked about weight loss?’ 2024, n = 683; 2022, n = 447. Significance indication: *<0.05 and **<0.01. Logistic regressions adjusted for the following variables: Age, sex, body mass index class and the presence of comorbidities. HCP, healthcare professional.

However, many actions remained unchanged from 2022 to 2024, and some showed a decrease in prevalence. In 2022, 33% of PwO reported that their HCP showed an understanding of the challenges associated with weight loss, compared with 28% in 2024 (p = 0.033). Furthermore, the percentage of respondents who believed their HCP provided useful and respectful advice decreased from 30% in 2022 to 24% in 2024 (p = 0.029).

The subgroup analysis in Supporting Information S1: Figure E2 shows few significant differences between medication history groups. 30% of PwO currently taking weight loss medication reported that their HCP makes them feel comfortable discussing their weight, compared with only 16% of previous takers and 19% of never takers (p = 0.006). Furthermore, 22% of PwO currently taking weight loss medication believed that their HCP considers their wishes/preferences for treatment, in contrast to 13% of previous takers and 12% of never takers (p = 0.006).

3.4. Changes in PwO feelings after their most recent conversation with their HCP

In 2022, 53% of PwO expressed only positive feelings after their most recent conversation with their HCP, whereas 31% expressed only negative feelings. In 2024, 56% of PwO reported only positive feelings after their most recent conversation with their HCP, and the proportion of PwO who expressed only negative feelings was 28% (Figure 3). After adjusting for confounders, no significant differences were found between the 2 years.

FIGURE 3.

FIGURE 3

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‘Think about your most recent conversation about weight with your HCP. How did you feel after this conversation?’ 2024, n = 683; 2022, n = 447. Differences in group responses were not significant. Logistic regressions adjusted for the following variables: Age, sex, body mass index class and the presence of comorbidities. HCP, healthcare professional. The authors have categorised the specific feelings as follows: Only positive, Only negative, Positive and negative and Other.

Supporting Information S1: Figure E3 shows that among PwO in 2024 currently taking weight loss medication, 75% reported only positive feelings, whereas 12% reported only negative feelings. For PwO who had previously taken medication, 57% and 30% reported only positive and negative feelings, respectively. Among PwO who had never taken medication, 49% expressed only positive feelings, while 33% expressed only negative feelings. The adjusted logistic regression showed a significant difference between the three groups (p < 0.001). PwO who were currently taking weight loss medication especially felt more ready for action and relieved after the most recent conversation with their HCP compared with PwO who had previously or never taken obesity medication (data not shown).

3.5. Changes in PwO reasons for not discussing weight with their HCP

The primary reason for PwO not discussing weight with their HCP—namely, believing it is their own responsibility to lose weight—remained consistent from 2022 (43%) to 2024 (46%) (Figure 4). Furthermore, from 2022 to 2024 there was a significant increase in the proportion of PwO indicating other reasons for not discussing weight with their HCP, including ‘I don't feel comfortable bringing it up’ (from 10% to 15%, p = 0.012), ‘I fear being met with prejudice about obesity/weight loss’ (from 14% to 23%, p < 0.001) and ‘I have had bad experiences talking to a healthcare professional about my weight’ (from 11% to 17%, p = 0.001).

FIGURE 4.

FIGURE 4

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‘What are the 5 most important reasons why you might not talk to your HCP about your weight?’ 2024, n = 1005; 2022, n = 879. Significance indication: *<0.05 and **<0.01. Logistic regressions adjusted for the following variables: Age, sex, body mass index class and the presence of comorbidities. HCP, healthcare professional.

Supporting Information S1: Figure E4 shows that PwO who had never taken weight loss medication were more likely to report that they do not discuss weight with their HCP due to a lack of trust or close relationship with their HCP (15%), compared with those who had previously taken medication (10%) and those currently taking medication (5%) (p = 0.001). A similar trend was observed for the statement ‘I don't believe my HCP is interested in my weight’ (p = 0.008). While all subgroups indicated that the primary reason for not discussing weight was the belief that it is their own responsibility to lose weight, this statement was most prevalent among PwO who had never taken weight loss medication (49%) compared with those who had previously taken weight loss medication (38%) and those currently taking weight loss medication (37%) (p = 0.018).

4. DISCUSSION

This study explored possible changes in how PwO (specifically, adult PwO in Denmark) perceive weight‐related discussions with HCPs from 2022 to 2024. A larger proportion of PwO reported engaging in discussions about weight‐related matters and weight loss with their HCP in 2024 compared with 2022. While a slightly greater proportion of PwO reported experiencing positive emotions in 2024 (such as readiness for action or hopefulness) following their most recent conversation with an HCP, these differences were not statistically significant. Many supportive actions provided by HCPs showed little or no change from 2022 to 2024. Furthermore, an increased percentage of PwO refrained from discussing their weight with HCPs due to fear of stigma or previous negative experiences.

4.1. The role of weight loss medication in PwO‐HCP interactions

The findings of this study can be considered in the context of recent research showing that Danish physicians have observed a profound shift in discussions and engagement on obesity in clinical settings following the introduction of GLP‐1 weight loss medications. A qualitative study by Andreassen et al. found that while HCPs previously felt responsible for initiating conversations about weight and weight loss with their patients, the advent of GLP‐1 medications has brought a notable increase in patients proactively seeking appointments to discuss their weight concerns. 34 This trend is consistent with the results of this study, which indicate an increase in the proportion of PwO consulting their HCP about weight and weight loss in 2024, following the introduction of new weight loss medications in Denmark. Furthermore, the findings showed a significant increase in PwO reporting that their HCP prescribes them medication that can help them lose weight.

The subgroup analyses reveal that a larger proportion of PwO currently taking weight loss medication, compared with those who had previously taken medication or those who had never taken it, reported having discussed weight and weight loss with their HCP. They also felt more comfortable talking about weight with their HCP, perceived their HCP as more understanding of the challenges of losing weight, and expressed more positive feelings after their most recent conversation with their HCP. These findings may reflect that PwO feel more comfortable requesting medication due to a better relationship and more positive experiences with their HCP, or merely that positive perceptions of a supportive HCP are a result of being prescribed a weight loss medication.

The reality behind these findings is likely very complex, resulting from various factors influencing the interactions between PwO and HCPs. Nevertheless, the results point to differences in the perceptions of these interactions among different medication groups. Extensive research has documented that strong patient–provider relationships can enhance both patient and provider satisfaction, improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. 35 , 36 , 37 , 38 , 39 , 40 Therefore, fostering positive and trusting relationships between PwO and HCPs should be a high priority for HCPs in the field of obesity management. This should be irrespective of weight loss medication status, to ensure that all PwO feel supported and respected in their interactions with healthcare providers.

Existing research has also raised questions about whether weight loss medications may both alleviate and increase stigma associated with obesity. As noted by Heitmann, the increased availability of these medications could enhance education for both the public and HCPs by reframing obesity as a medical condition rather than an individual failing. 19 This is consistent with the subgroup analyses in this study, which showed that PwO currently taking weight loss medication were significantly less likely to report that losing weight was their own responsibility, compared with the other groups. However, recent studies from the United States and Denmark suggest that users of new GLP‐1 receptor agonists may face stigma for choosing what both the public and HCPs sometimes perceive as a shortcut to weight loss and raise questions about the validity of this method. 34 , 41 This trend mirrors previous findings related to bariatric surgery, and HCPs need to be educated and aware of this pattern. 19

Additionally, the results of this study showed that the percentage of respondents who felt their HCP provided useful and respectful advice slightly but significantly decreased from 30% in 2022 to 24% in 2024. One possible explanation for this decline is that the increased focus on weight loss medications during consultations may have shifted the perceptions of PwO, leading them to focus more on the medication aspect rather than on the advice provided. This finding therefore does not necessarily imply that HCPs are failing to offer useful and respectful advice, but rather that PwO may prioritise the discussion of medications in their weight consultations.

4.2. The impact of stigma and internalised bias in healthcare settings

The findings from this study could reflect that significant barriers regarding weight‐related discussions in healthcare settings persist. A substantial and increased proportion of PwO do not feel comfortable bringing up weight in medical consultations and still avoid engaging with their HCP due to fear of stigma, previous negative experiences, or a belief that weight management is solely their own responsibility. These findings are consistent with research by Lau et al., which identified various barriers to obesity management, highlighting that PwO often face stigma and bias from their HCP and associate obesity management with feelings of shame and frustration. The same research also found that PwO may refrain from seeking support because they believe that obesity management is entirely their own responsibility. 42

These experiences of and beliefs by PwO could also reflect internalised weight bias, where individuals apply negative weight stereotypes to themselves and engage in self‐derogation. Research shows that perceived weight stigma experienced from HCPs is significantly associated with higher levels of weight bias internalisation. 43

Such internalised bias not only perpetuates old obesity narratives but has also been linked to reduced mental health in PwO, avoidance of healthcare settings, and a general failure to address wider factors in obesity management. 16 , 44 , 45 Therefore, the simplified belief that obesity arises from individual shortcomings, rather than from an interaction of genetic, biological, environmental, societal and psychological factors, can be associated with a series of negative consequences. 19

4.3. Implications for clinical practice and future research

Our findings, along with existing literature, highlight the need for an ongoing effort in addressing and eliminating stigma and negative attitudes towards obesity in healthcare settings. A review of 25 interventional studies recently identified five key strategies to reduce weight bias among healthcare trainees and students: (1) increasing education, (2) providing knowledge on causes and controllability, (3) enhancing empathy, (4) promoting a weight‐inclusive approach and (5) utilising a combination of the listed methods. 46 Our findings support the relevance of these strategies, as stigma‐related concerns, including fear of judgement, were reported across the PwO population after adjusting for background variables (age, sex, BMI class and the presence of comorbidities). Therefore, educating HCPs on both the underlying physiological mechanisms of obesity and how to adopt a stigma‐free communication approach will be particularly important for improving patient perceptions.

Furthermore, as obesity management is a rapidly evolving field, new treatments, guidelines and understandings are constantly emerging. Therefore, continuous and longitudinal studies are essential in order to track changes over time and provide ongoing evaluation in the field of obesity. Such studies can help identify long‐term trends and outcomes, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of obesity and weight stigma. For future research, a combination of quantitative and qualitative studies is recommended to explore the perceptions and experiences of PwO in greater depth and thus provide a holistic view of both challenges and improvement in the field of obesity management.

4.4. Strengths and limitations

This study presents several methodological strengths. First, it is based on a large and nationally representative sample of Danish respondents, which enhances the generalisability of the findings. Second, the survey was developed by field experts and underwent extensive pre‐testing, ensuring validity. The survey was also thoroughly tested across multiple countries, including in a Danish context in 2022. The availability of a comparable study population from 2022 also provides a valuable benchmark for longitudinal comparisons. The application of adjusted logistic regression models enhances the robustness of our conclusions. These analyses suggest that the passage of time itself may have an explanatory effect on the highlighted outcomes. However, for several other outcomes (such as how PwO report feeling after interactions with HCPs), only very small and insignificant differences were observed between 2022 and 2024.

Despite applying the same inclusion and representativeness criteria for recruitment in both study years, this is a repeated cross‐sectional study and not a longitudinal study. Given the random sampling, there is a small probability that some individuals were resampled. However, as all data were fully deidentified, it is not possible to quantify any overlap. Consequently, individual‐level changes could not be analysed, only population‐level changes over time. However, in line with standard practice for repeated cross‐sectional surveys, we analysed the data using regression models that include survey year as a variable to control for period differences between years. 32 Nonetheless, residual confounding from unmeasured or unadjusted variables may persist. Furthermore, as items related to weight loss medication were not included in the 2022 survey, this variable could not be incorporated as a covariate in the regression models. Subgroup analyses comparing weight loss medication use may also be affected by confounding by indication, such as differences in motivation or HCP access, despite adjustment for background variables.

The fact that the study relies on self‐reported height and weight to classify BMI, as well as self‐reported outcome data in general, is another limitation, since it may introduce social desirability bias and recall bias, potentially affecting the accuracy of participants' reflections on the past 2 years. Last, the use of online panel companies introduces the potential for selection bias. Additionally, due to the use of online panel recruitment, the survey response rate could not be measured, limiting the ability to assess sample representativeness.

5. CONCLUSION

The findings of this study indicate some changes from 2022 to 2024 among PwO in Denmark regarding how they perceive weight‐related discussions with their HCPs. More PwO reported engaging in conversations about weight‐related matters and weight loss with their HCP in 2024 compared with 2022. However, there was only a very small and statistically insignificant increase in PwO reporting positive compared to negative feelings following these conversations. Notably, the positive feelings were more frequently reported among PwO currently taking prescribed weight loss medication.

Many PwO still avoid weight‐related interactions with their HCP due to fear of stigma, previous negative experiences or viewing weight loss as entirely their responsibility. This study emphasises the need for continued efforts to address these barriers and improve HCP education, thus reducing stigma and improving obesity care.

FUNDING INFORMATION

This study was funded by Novo Nordisk Denmark A/S. Novo Nordisk Denmark A/S approved this study.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT

Pernille Andreassen has no conflicts of interest. Per Nielsen is the former chair of the Danish Adipositas Association and now represents the association. The Danish Adipositas Association has collaborated with and received grants from Novo Nordisk. Mette Bøgelund and Amanda Falah Rasmussen are employed by EY Parthenon P/S. EY Parthenon P/S is a paid vendor of Novo Nordisk. Signe Stensen is employed by Novo Nordisk and a shareholder of Novo Nordisk. Jens Meldgaard Bruun has been part of speakers' bureaus and/or received research support from AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Eli Lilly, MSD/Merck, Mundipharma, Novo Nordisk and Sanofi.

Supporting information

Data S1. Supporting Information.

DOM-28-2919-s001.docx (304.7KB, docx)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors would like to thank Anette Schnieber for contributing her expertise to the development of the ACTION‐DK 2024 survey.

DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

The data that support the findings of this study are not publicly available due to the commitment made to the respondents that their information would not be shared with any third parties. However, aggregated data that preserves respondent confidentiality is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

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Associated Data

This section collects any data citations, data availability statements, or supplementary materials included in this article.

Supplementary Materials

Data S1. Supporting Information.

DOM-28-2919-s001.docx (304.7KB, docx)

Data Availability Statement

The data that support the findings of this study are not publicly available due to the commitment made to the respondents that their information would not be shared with any third parties. However, aggregated data that preserves respondent confidentiality is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

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