There's ongoing discussion in the media and public about obesity as a risk factor for diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, often compared to smoking. Obesity is seen as a behavioral issue, suggesting it can be prevented through diet and exercise alone, placing responsibility on individuals. This overlooks medical treatments like medications or surgery, seen by some as not addressing the root cause. Recent controversies over childhood obesity guidelines in the USA reveal societal weight bias and stigma. This presentation explores how this view of obesity drives inequities in care and why it's recognized as a chronic disease needing lifelong treatment and support. Ximena Ramos Salas, PhD, Research Consultant, European Association for the Study of Obesity.