Work

Weight Stigma and Orthopedic Surgeons' Treatment Preferences for Patients With Obesity Who Are Candidates for Elective Total Knee Arthroplasty

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed to examine how anti‐fat attitudes and attitudes toward obesity management influence orthopedic surgeons' treatment preferences for patients with obesity who are candidates for elective total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Methods A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 150 orthopedic surgeons using a web‐based questionnaire. The survey included four sections: socio‐demographic data, the Antifat Attitudes Questionnaire (AFA) assessing biases related to obesity (dislike, fear of fatness, and beliefs about willpower), an adapted questionnaire on attitudes toward obesity management, and a custom section on treatment preferences. Results The sample had a mean age of 43.4 years (SD = 9.7) and was predominantly male (70.7%). Participants exhibited moderate anti‐fat attitudes alongside positive views on obesity management. Stronger anti‐fat attitudes correlated with a preference for conservative treatments over surgery (r = 0.45 to r = 0.29, p < 0.001), whereas supportive attitudes toward obesity management were associated with less preference for conservative treatment (r = −0.53, p < 0.001). Male surgeons demonstrated higher anti‐fat attitudes and a greater inclination for conservative treatment than female surgeons. Regression analysis identified attitudes toward obesity management as a significant predictor of treatment preferences (β = −0.54, p < 0.001). Conclusion Findings highlight the impact of weight stigma on clinical decision‐making and emphasise the need for increased awareness and education to ensure equitable access to TKA for patients with obesity.

Source: Obesity Science & Practice

DOI: 10.1002/osp4.70059

Authors: Yaniv Yonai, Rawan Masarwa, Merav Ben Natan, Yaron Berkovich

Institutions: Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Tel Aviv University

Language: English

Topic: Obesity and Health Practices

Subfield: Pharmacy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,260