MSc.BS Pham Thi Minh Chau, Department of Psychiatry - University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Ho Chi Minh City, said that she regularly receives overweight and obese patients coming for examination in a state of prolonged psychological pressure. In many cases, weight is the most sensitive "touch point".
She recounted a young patient coming for examination due to stress and anxiety. Right from the beginning of the meeting, this person suggested: "Whatever the doctor asks, I will answer, but please don't ask about weight". According to MSc.BS Minh Chau, the saying shows that weight is not just a number, but is associated with inferiority, hurt and memories of being criticized and compared. Therefore, many people avoid it as a self-defense mechanism.
During treatment, doctors still have to mention eating disorders and related factors, but by approaching cautiously, respecting the patient's emotions. Six months later, when her psychology stabilized, this patient herself shared the reason for continuing treatment: "because on the first day the doctor did not ask about her weight".
According to Dr. Chau, social prejudice about obesity is becoming an invisible barrier in health care. Many people believe that being overweight is due to constitution, not yet dangerous, so treatment is not needed. Some others are self-conscious, limit communication, and even avoid medical examinations for fear of being mentioned for their appearance.
From a professional perspective, obesity and depression have a two-way relationship. People with depression are prone to eating disorders; conversely, obese people are at higher risk of depression. Prolonged stress makes them turn to high-sugar and fatty foods, forming a disease spiral both psychologically and biologically. If you avoid discussing weight, the risk of late diagnosis and missed early intervention will increase.
From an endocrine perspective, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Quang Nam - Head of the Department of Endocrinology, University Medical Center Hospital HCMC said that obesity has now been recognized as a chronic disease, which can recur and cause many cardiovascular, metabolic, respiratory and psychological complications.
According to global statistics, about 1 billion people are living with overweight and obesity. If this trend continues, by 2035, nearly half of the world's population may be affected. In Vietnam, the rate of overweight and obesity has increased 7 times in more than two decades, especially in urban areas, due to sedentary lifestyles and diets high in processed foods.
Most patients still lose weight on their own, only going to medical facilities when complications appear," Dr. Nam said. He recommends that people should monitor their weight and waistline periodically and access official information instead of believing in unverified weight loss methods.
Experts emphasize that obesity is a long-term battle, requiring coordination between individuals, families and the health system. Early action not only helps prevent complications but also reduces the burden of disease for society.
