ECPObesity

At the launch of the IMPACTMED project in Rome, ECPO Patient Council member Mari-Mette Graff shared an important reminder on the real impact stigma has on people living with obesity throughout their healthcare journey.

Drawing from lived experience, Mari-Mette highlighted how stigma can affect recruitment, participation, retention, and trust in healthcare systems, even when intentions are good. Her message reinforced the importance of building truly people-centred care grounded in dignity, equity, and respect.

“Stigma is a wall that keeps us apart, but equity is the bridge that reminds us that we all deserve the same safety and dignity.” - Mari-Mette Graff

At ECPO, we are proud to see patient voices helping shape conversations around sustainable and fair healthcare across Europe.

As ECO2026 comes to a close, ECPO would like to sincerely thank our funders and partners for their support in ensuring a strong patient advocacy presence in Istanbul, Türkiye.

Their support made it possible for ECPO to engage, contribute, and amplify the voices and experiences of people living with obesity throughout the congress.

We also wish to clearly acknowledge that all ECPO activities, messaging, and engagement at ECO2026 were developed and delivered independently. Our funders and partners had no influence over ECPO’s activities or positions during the meeting.

Together, we remain committed to advancing collaboration, reducing stigma, and improving outcomes for people living with obesity across Europe and beyond.

As an unforgettable comes to a close, the inspiration, energy, and sense of community will continue to stay with us. 💜

Andreas Herdt reflected on the momentum created during the congress: “My head is still jumping back and forth between the impressions from this congress and ideas for the next one. The time between congresses will be quite busy this time, but I am really looking forward to rock it. However, with such an organisation team and plenty of helpful advocates - what could go wrong?”

Federico Louis Moya and Diana Castillo shared this heartfelt message with the ECPO family:
“Dear friends, thank you all for these wonderful days. Seeing you again was enriching and a real boost to keep making ECPO even greater. To those who have already arrived home, take care, rest, and enjoy your families. To those on their way back, have a safe trip and be careful. And to those who haven't started your journey home yet, enjoy these free hours, the charms of Istanbul, its delicious food, and its incredible buildings.
Remember, we'll see you at ECO27 in Munich.”

Thank you to everyone who made ECO2026 so meaningful. Together, we continue building a stronger, more united voice for people living with obesity across Europe.