Protecting individuals living with overweight and obesity: Attitudes and concerns toward COVID-19 vaccination in Canada

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess attitudes toward coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination and the degree of fear of COVID-19 among those living with obesity. Methods: Two samples were recruited for an online survey: one sample was a representative sample of Canadians living with overweight and obesity (n = 1,089), and the second was a convenience sample of individuals recruited from obesity clinical services or patient organizations (n = 980). Respondents completed ratings of their comfort receiving a COVID-19 vaccination along with the Vaccine Hesitancy Scale and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. Results: Approximately one-third of respondents, regardless of sample or weight category, were not comfortable receiving a vaccination, and one-half expressed moderate or greater perceived risks of vaccination. Confidence in vaccinations was extremely low, especially for those in the clinical sample. Fear of COVID-19 was substantial and predicted attitudes toward vaccination. Females were less comfortable receiving the vaccine and perceived more risks than males. Conclusions: These results suggest those living with obesity are highly ambivalent about COVID-19 vaccination. Despite their being at high risk, their confidence in vaccines is very low. Results suggest the need for patient-centered counseling, with a focus on shared decision-making to strengthen confidence and reduce perceived risk.