We’ve all seen the stereotypical photos used in news stories about health: individuals with higher body weights often shown from the neck down, or caught in "cautionary" poses. These images, sometimes called the , do more than just illustrate a story—they strip individuals of their identity and dignity. Why Image Choice Impacts Health
If you are sharing content or photos, consider these guidelines for a more inclusive and empathetic approach: Media and Its Influence on Obesity - PMC pictures of extremely obese people
When discussing imagery of people living with obesity, the most impactful and responsible approach is to focus on . Media and social platforms often use "stigmatizing" imagery—such as "headless" torsos or photos focusing only on midsections—which can dehumanize individuals and reduce them to symbols of a "crisis" rather than recognizing them as whole people. We’ve all seen the stereotypical photos used in