Associations Between Weight Discrimination and Health Outcomes by Racial and Ethnic Groups: A Scoping Review

Weight discrimination refers to bias against individuals whose body weight and shape do not align with predominant social norms. Weight discrimination is prevalent and negatively impacts health outcomes. The prevalence and impact of weight discrimination vary by race; however, there is a dearth of research describing the potential health effects across racial and ethnic groups. This scoping review aimed to assess the literature for associations between weight discrimination and health outcomes, with a focus on racial and ethnic differences. A literature search was conducted across five databases for original studies that examined health outcomes associated with weight discrimination and delineated results by race. After quality assessment, thematic analysis was performed to generate themes, and consensus was reached. Twenty articles met the selected inclusion criteria, revealing racial differences in several health outcomes and disease management linked to weight-based discrimination. Social determinants of health and cultural beliefs about body size emerged as potential modifiers of these disparities. Although most studies investigated unique populations and variables, complicating comparisons, the review highlighted racial variances in the prevalence of weight discrimination. Additionally, 25 physical and mental health outcomes were associated with weight discrimination, with body mass index (BMI) being the most common. Future research should further explore the intersection of weight discrimination and race and ethnicity, identifying contributing factors and incorporating personal narratives. Clinicians must consider the influence of culture and social determinants of health to provide equitable care across body size spectrums.