Stigmatising attitudes and beliefs about obesity amongst the dental team

Abstract

Aim or Purpose: There is evidence indicating limited training amongst dental professionals regarding obesity or obesity-related stigma. However, studies have minimally explored the Australian context and have not included support staff. This cross-sectional survey aimed to assess stigmatising attitudes and beliefs of dental professionals (registered general dentists, oral health therapists) and support staff (dental assistants, dental receptionists) working in private and public regional practices in New South Wales and special needs dentists across Australia towards people living with obesity Materials and Methods: An anonymous electronic REDCap™ validated survey was used to assess stigmatising attitudes and beliefs held by the cohort in relation to people living with obesity. Results: Fifty-three participants completed the survey (n=33 clinicians, n=20 support staff). The majority (88.7%) held positive attitudes towards people living with obesity. Of the clinicians, 15/33 (45.5%) reported one hour or less and 14/33 (42.4%) reported 2-5 hours of obesity-related education. 14/20 (70%) of the support staff reported no prior education or training about obesity. Of responses reflecting weight stigma, only 3 clinicians reported negative reactions towards the appearance, or discomfort during examination, of a patient with obesity, or a perception of laziness compared with normal weight individuals. A higher proportion of support staff (up to 40%) reported responses indicating negative attitudes towards people living with obesity. Conclusions: Survey responses reflected some evidence of weight stigma in both dental professionals and support staff. Professional development targeting weight stigma reduction in the dental setting is needed, for both clinicians and support staff.