Survey Reveals 93% of Women Think Insurance Should Cover Obesity Care, Including Medications 

Obesity affects 1 in 3 American women with a disproportionate impact on women of color, and according to newly released survey results, 95% of women recognize obesity as a serious health issue impacting societal well-being—placing the disease among other major public health concerns such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease and mental illness. 

The Alliance for Women’s Health and Prevention (AWHP) recently released a comprehensive public opinion survey of 1,000 women conducted by the Health Analytics & Insights Group, which examined women’s attitudes around and perceptions of obesity, its effect on women’s lives and well-being and their support for obesity care solutions.  

obesity’s negative impact on women’s lives  

While understanding and acknowledgment of obesity as a chronic disease has grown in recent years, women living with obesity still face a range of physical, social and financial consequences. The survey found that only 47% of women living with obesity feel their condition is managed, negatively affecting their overall well-being and sense of self.  

• 73% noted an impact on personal self-esteem and confidence 

• 60% noted an impact on motivation to follow through on ordinary tasks 

barriers to obesity care 

There are existing barriers preventing women from accessing the full range of evidence-based comprehensive care—care that includes medical nutrition services, behavioral therapy, surgery, and obesity medications. Among those women who tried to seek obesity medications: 

• 84% cited out-of-pocket costs as a barrier 

• 76% cited a lack of insurance coverage for care as a prohibiting factor  

These results underscore the significant coverage barriers that hinder women from accessing essential obesity treatment.   

obesity in the workplace  

Women employees living with obesity experience unique challenges in the workplace—other studies have found that they often face stigma, are less likely to be promoted and earn up to 12% less than their colleagues.  

Given these obstacles, it is understandable why about one-third of women surveyed said that living with obesity negatively impacts their work and career goals.  

the role of insurance coverage 

Survey data underscore the critical need for comprehensive coverage of the full range of obesity treatment options.  

Among the 1,000 women surveyed, the vast majority (93%) emphasize the importance of insurance coverage for the full range of obesity care, including medication.  

“The survey results highlight the significant impact obesity has on women in the United States –– and while a multitude of obesity care solutions exist, so do access challenges that ultimately make it difficult for women to get the care they need to live their best lives,” said Millicent Gorham, CEO of AWHP. “As the data reveals, insurance coverage for the full range of evidence-based obesity care options, including medications, is a priority for women. Obesity should be viewed just like any other chronic disease, and covering this care has the potential to help lessen costs through reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, and a healthier workforce.”   

Read the full survey results here.