Obesity research from the patient perspective

What if we started planning a research study for weight loss from the perspective of someone who is living with obesity?

1. Obesity Conveys Shame—Even When We Don’t Mean It To

Designing trials that center dignity requires more than inclusive language. It requires us to be mindful of every moment that might unintentionally reinforce stigma: from recruitment messaging to how we train site staff to greet participants. Clinical protocols may frame obesity as a modifiable risk factor, but participants experience a more personal burden—the shame society projects onto their bodies.

2. The Waiting Room Can Exclude Before a Word Is Spoken

When Science Meets Real-World Struggle

Every year, the promise of new therapies often stalls because of one often-overlooked factor: it’s too hard for people to participate. Protocol complexity is rising. Study visits are long, logistics are daunting, but development teams feel stuck with these obstacles. “Maybe it won’t be too bad?”

Participation burden isn’t theoretical. It’s quantifiable, impactful, and—most importantly—preventable.