Exploring how internalized weight stigma affects metabolic health in women
Investigating the relationship between internalized weight stigma and metabolic syndrome
This study is looking at how feeling bad about your weight might affect heart health in postmenopausal women with obesity, and it hopes to show how these feelings can impact overall health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10672239 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of internalized weight stigma on metabolic syndrome among postmenopausal women with obesity. It aims to understand how negative societal perceptions about weight can lead to self-stigmatization and potentially worsen physical health outcomes, particularly cardiovascular disease risk. The study will measure levels of inflammatory markers and assess the relationship between internalized stigma and metabolic health, while controlling for factors like body mass index and depression. By focusing on a specific group of women, the research seeks to provide insights into the physical health implications of mental health issues related to weight stigma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women with obesity, defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or higher.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have obesity or are not postmenopausal women may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for obesity-related health issues by addressing the psychological factors that contribute to metabolic syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between weight stigma and mental health, but this specific investigation into its effects on metabolic syndrome is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pearl, Rebecca L — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Pearl, Rebecca L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.