ABOUT THE TEAL RIBBON MOVEMENT
The Teal Ribbon Movement is a non-profit awareness initiative established to advance public understanding of obesity and promote a more informed, compassionate and evidence-based approach to obesity care.
The movement was inspired by the recognition that obesity is one of the most significant public health challenges of our time. Despite advances in science and medicine, many individuals living with obesity continue to face misunderstanding, stigma and barriers to appropriate treatment.
The Teal Ribbon serves as a symbol of awareness, dignity and treatment.
OUR VISION
To create a society where obesity is recognised as a chronic disease, where individuals living with obesity are treated with dignity and respect, and where evidence-based care is accessible and understood.
To improve public awareness of obesity and its health consequences.
To reduce stigma, discrimination and misconceptions surrounding obesity and obesity treatment.
To promote evidence-based approaches to prevention, treatment and long-term management.
To encourage collaboration among healthcare professionals, policymakers, patients, caregivers and the wider community.
OUR MISSION
WHAT WE STAND FOR
We recognise obesity as a chronic disease that requires long-term management.
We support science-based approaches to obesity prevention and treatment.
We advocate for respectful, person-centred language and care.
We believe that treatment decisions should be individualised and guided by evidence, clinical expertise and patient needs.
We support a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals from a wide range of disciplines.
Public awareness and education initiatives.
Community engagement and advocacy.
Collaboration with healthcare professionals and organisations.
Educational campaigns aimed at reducing stigma and promoting understanding.
Promotion of evidence-based obesity care.
The Teal Ribbon Movement welcomes individuals, healthcare professionals, organisations and communities who share the goal of improving awareness, understanding and care for people living with obesity.
Together, we can help transform how obesity is understood and addressed for future generations.
WHAT WE DO
Our Core Values
DIGNITY
People did not choose their biology.
Every person deserves respect, regardless of body size.
AWARENESS
Understanding obesity saves lives.
Awareness helps people seek help earlier and make informed decisions.
INTEGRITY
Evidence matters.
Medical and surgical treatments for obesity are healthcare interventions, not cosmetic procedures.
Myth
vs
Fact
Myth
People with obesity simply lack willpower.
Fact
Obesity is influenced by genetics, hormones, metabolism, environment, sleep, stress and many other factors.
Myth
Weight-loss surgery is cosmetic.
Fact
Metabolic surgery improves diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea and other obesity-related diseases.
Myth
People should just eat less and move more.
Fact
While lifestyle changes are important, obesity is often more complex than personal choice alone.