Going to the doctor should be about getting the care you need—but for many people in larger bodies, it’s an experience filled with anxiety and shame. The fear of being judged, dismissed, or having every health concern blamed on weight keeps countless patients from seeking routine care. And too often, that hesitation leads to serious consequences.

Dr. Lindsay Ogle, a board-certified family medicine and obesity medicine physician, recalls a patient who avoided check-ups for years, only to later be diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer—something that could have been caught much earlier with routine screenings. Stories like this aren’t rare. Weight bias in healthcare is a real and deeply ingrained issue, and even well-meaning providers may unintentionally contribute to the problem.

So how can we do better? In this post, we’ll explore how weight bias impacts patient care, practical steps healthcare providers can take to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, and how patients can advocate for themselves in medical settings. Because everyone deserves compassionate, judgment-free healthcare

When Preventive Care Gets Overlooked—And the Cost of Delayed Diagnoses

Dr. Lindsay Ogle sees firsthand how weight bias in healthcare can lead to missed diagnoses. As a physician specializing in metabolic health, she often works with patients who have gone years without routine screenings—sometimes with devastating consequences.

One patient in her early forties came to her for weight management and ultimately underwent bariatric surgery. But after the procedure, she developed multiple blood clots—an unusual pattern that led doctors to investigate further. That’s when they discovered she had cervical cancer.

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, thanks to clear screening guidelines. Yet this patient had never been tested. Dr. Ogle has seen this pattern before—patients in larger bodies are more likely to have their concerns dismissed, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses.

This case is a stark reminder of why routine screenings matter and why both doctors and patients need to push for comprehensive, unbiased care. Because when weight bias leads to missed diagnoses, the consequences can be life-threatening.

Why Routine Screenings Matter—and How to Make Them Happen

Many people don’t realize that obesity is linked to a higher risk of certain cancers, making routine screenings even more essential. But too often, the focus—both for patients and providers—is on visible health concerns, like weight, while hidden risks go undetected. That’s why establishing baseline health with a trusted primary care provider is critical.

Preventive screenings, like mammograms and routine lab work, may not seem urgent, but they can catch serious conditions before symptoms appear. Unfortunately, access to care isn’t always easy, especially in understaffed areas. Still, taking the time to prioritize screenings can make all the difference.

Your Health Checklist: The Screenings You Shouldn’t Skip

Staying on top of routine health screenings doesn’t have to be overwhelming. While it may seem like a long list, most screenings follow a set schedule, making them easier to manage once you get into the routine. Here are the key tests and exams that both men and women should prioritize:

• Blood Pressure Checks – Ideally, at every visit, but at least once a year to catch early signs of hypertension.

• Routine Lab Work – Includes diabetes screening, fasting cholesterol panel, kidney and liver function tests, and anemia screening, especially by age 40.

• Vaccinations – Staying up to date with recommended immunizations is a critical part of preventive care.

• Mental Health Screenings – Regular check-ins for depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.

• Cancer Screenings:

• Colon Cancer – Starts at age 45 for both men and women.

• Lung Cancer – Recommended at 50 for those with a smoking history.

• Cervical Cancer – Starts at 21 but may shift to 25 under new guidelines.

• Breast Cancer – Begins at 40 for most women.

• Prostate Cancer – Typically starts at 45, depending on risk factors.

• Bone Density Scans – Recommended for women at 65, earlier for those with risk factors.

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening – For men with a smoking history at 65.

If you’re feeling behind, don’t worry—these screenings don’t happen all at once. The key is to establish a routine and advocate for your health. If you’re unsure about a test, ask your doctor: Do I need this? It’s a simple question that can make a big difference.

Creating a Supportive, Nonjudgmental Healthcare Environment

For many people, visiting the doctor can come with feelings of shame or anxiety, especially when it comes to weight and health discussions. Patients may worry about being judged, receiving different treatment, or having an uncomfortable experience. That’s why it’s essential for healthcare providers to foster a compassionate, respectful, and supportive environment.

While not every aspect of a clinic setting can be changed, there are steps that can be taken to make the experience more comfortable. Small changes, like ensuring a range of blood pressure cuffs are readily available in every exam room and training staff to use patient-first language, can make a big difference.

Perhaps most importantly, healthcare providers can take a patient-centered approach by asking open-ended questions and listening without judgment. If a patient hesitates to schedule a screening or test, taking the time to understand their concerns—whether it’s past trauma, discomfort, or another barrier—can help build trust and encourage them to get the care they need.

Consent and collaboration also matter. Simply asking, “Can we talk about this?” before discussing weight or health concerns gives the patient a sense of control in the conversation. Recognizing the patient’s perspective and addressing their fears can create a more positive experience and, ultimately, lead to better health outcomes.

By prioritizing respect, curiosity, and understanding, healthcare providers can create a space where patients feel safe, heard, and empowered to take charge of their health.