The Obesity Society

The Obesity Society
Name	The Obesity Society
Abbreviation	TOS
Formation	1982
Type	Professional organization
Focus	Obesity research, treatment, and prevention
Headquarters	Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
Website	https://www.obesity.org/

The Obesity Society. It is the leading professional organization dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding, clinical treatment, and prevention of obesity. Founded in 1982, the society brings together researchers, clinicians, educators, and policymakers from across North America and around the world. Its work is centered on promoting innovative research, advocating for evidence-based public policy, and providing critical education to healthcare professionals and the public.

History

The organization was established in 1982 by a group of pioneering researchers and clinicians, including Dr. George A. Bray, who recognized the need for a dedicated scientific forum focused on the emerging field of obesity. Initially named the North American Association for the Study of Obesity, it merged with the American Obesity Association in the early 2000s to strengthen its advocacy efforts. A pivotal moment in its evolution was the 2008 rebranding to its current name, reflecting a broader mission beyond pure scientific study. This transformation was influenced by the growing global obesity epidemic and the need for a more integrated approach involving organizations like the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Mission and activities

The primary mission is to advance the science-based understanding of obesity and to improve the lives of those affected through research, education, and advocacy. Core activities include funding and promoting cutting-edge research through grants and fellowships, such as those awarded in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health. The society actively engages in public policy, working with entities like the Food and Drug Administration and the United States Congress to shape legislation on nutrition, physical activity, and anti-discrimination laws. It also develops clinical practice guidelines and provides extensive professional education to improve patient care across healthcare systems.

Publications

The society publishes several influential peer-reviewed journals that are central to the field. Its flagship publication is *Obesity*, a high-impact monthly journal featuring original research and reviews. Another key title is *Obesity Pillars*, an open-access journal focusing on clinical practice. It also co-publishes the textbook *Handbook of Obesity* with leading academic presses. These publications disseminate critical findings to a global audience, informing the work of institutions like the Mayo Clinic, Harvard University, and the European Association for the Study of Obesity.

Annual meeting

The premier event is ObesityWeek, an international conference held each autumn that convenes thousands of experts. This meeting features presentations of groundbreaking research, educational sessions led by authorities from places like the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and debates on contemporary issues. It serves as a key venue for networking among scientists, clinicians, and industry representatives from companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly and Company. The programming often includes joint sessions with allied organizations such as the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Leadership and governance

Governance is provided by an elected Board of Trustees, which includes representatives from academia, clinical practice, and public health. Day-to-day operations are managed by an executive director and a professional staff based in Silver Spring, Maryland. Prominent past presidents have included researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The society also relies on numerous committees, such as those focused on advocacy and early career investigators, to guide its strategic initiatives and collaborate with partners like the American Heart Association.

Awards and recognition

It bestows several prestigious awards to honor excellence in the field. The highest honor is the Atkinson-Stern Award for Distinguished Public Service, named for notable philanthropists. Other major awards include the Mickey Stunkard Lifetime Achievement Award, named for the renowned psychiatrist from the University of Pennsylvania, and the Ethan Sims Young Investigator Award, honoring the pioneering work of the researcher from the University of Vermont. These awards recognize contributions that have shaped national policy, advanced clinical practice at institutions like the Cleveland Clinic, and inspired future generations of scientists.

Category:Medical and health organizations based in the United States Category:Organizations established in 1982 Category:Obesity organizations