One Size Doesn't Fit All: Anti-Fat Bias in Genetic Counseling

Anti-fat bias is ubiquitous and increasing in American culture. Healthcare workers have been shown to harbor as much or more anti-fat bias than the general population. Fat individuals have reported being denied appropriate healthcare, feeling clinicians would rather not treat them, and that their physicians spend less time with them than thinner patients. Research has shown that this has led to compromised psychosocial wellbeing, depression, lower self-esteem, and reduced physical health in fat patients, as well as fat patients delaying or avoiding healthcare. This Educational Breakout Session will present data describing anti-fat bias in the genetic counseling student population, educate participants on best practices when treating and working with fat patients, and ask participants to explore their own bias and how they can improve the experiences of their fat patients as they navigate a healthcare system riddled with anti-fat bias. 

Presented by:
1. Leeran Dublin-Ryan, PhD, MS, CGC
2. Ragen Chastain, MEd, BCPA 

Learning Objectives:
1. Define the types of anti-fat bias.
2. Summarize the current state of anti-fat bias in healthcare and genetic counseling.
3. Identify intersectional strategies for mitigating anti-fat bias in genetic counseling. 

Continuing Education Unit Approval:
The National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) has authorized National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) to offer up to 1.5 Category 1 contact hours for One Size Doesn't Fit All: Anti-Fat Bias in Genetic Counseling. The American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) will accept CEUs earned at this program for the purposes of genetic counselor certification and recertification.

Successful Completion:
1. View recording
2. Pass quiz
3. Complete evaluation