ECPO

Hana Vrabcová, ECPO Patient Council member and representative of SKLON, shares how
European experience is helping to inform national action on obesity in Slovakia.

In January 2026, SKLON submitted proposals to the Minister of Health calling for the
implementation of WHO guidance on physical activity and behavioural support alongside
GLP-1 medications, as well as recognition of obesity as a national health priority.

SKLON was also invited to contribute to Slovakia’s national Health Programme and became
a member of the Slovak Association of Sports for All. During MOVE Week 2026, it
organised activities promoting regular movement, while educational sessions in Piešťany and
Smrdáky covered obesity, nutrition, body composition, liver health and physical activity.

Through cooperation with ECPO, ELPA and national partners, SKLON continues to promote
education, early intervention and the involvement of people living with obesity.

#Slovakia #AddressingObesityTogether

From 16–22 September, European Mobility Week highlights the importance of creating sustainable and accessible transport for everyone.

This year’s focus on intergenerational mobility recognises that people’s transport needs can change throughout their lives. Truly inclusive mobility must also consider people of all body sizes, ensuring that public transport, walking routes and shared spaces are safe, comfortable and free from stigma.

Accessible transport supports participation in work, education, healthcare and community life. Everyone should be able to move through their community with dignity, regardless of their age, ability or body size.

#EuropeanMobilityWeek #PeopleFirst #AddressingObesityTogether
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What causes obesity? The science tells a different story from the myths and stereotypes.

🧬 Genetics matter.
👶 Risk can begin early in life.
🥗 Bodies respond differently to food and our environment.

Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease shaped by complex biological, genetic, environmental, psychological and social factors - not simply willpower or choice.

#Obesity #WeightStigma

What others say about us can eventually shape how we see ourselves.

Weight stigma affects workplaces, healthcare, schools, relationships and access to care.

Research by the Rudd Center shows that 54% of adults living with obesity reported workplace stigma; 64% reported weight bias from healthcare professionals.

When stigma becomes internalized, it can contribute to shame, self-blame, low self-esteem, anxiety and isolation.

Obesity is a chronic disease. Stigma is not treatment.

#WeightStigma #EndWeightStigma #Obesity #ECPO #AddressingObesityTogether

On 13 June 2026, @La Mattina Dopo APS brought together more than 130 participants in Bologna for its annual "I Live My Obesity" event, creating an inspiring space for education, collaboration, and patient advocacy.

The event welcomed people living with obesity, healthcare professionals, patient advocates, institutional representatives, industry partners, and volunteers to explore the importance of person-centred obesity care. Discussions highlighted multidisciplinary obesity management, the value of lived experience, and the need to strengthen collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals.

The programme also showcased advocacy initiatives focused on education, prevention, reducing weight stigma, and improving access to quality obesity care across Italy.

At ECPO, we are proud to see members of our Patient Council supporting initiatives that place lived experience at the heart of obesity care. Events like "I Live My Obesity" demonstrate the power of patient advocacy in challenging stigma, improving understanding, and helping to shape more compassionate and equitable healthcare.

#AddressingObesityTogether