Saudi Adults’ Understanding and Views of Weight Management Practices and Obesity

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The rising prevalence of overweight and obesity presents a significant global challenge. This study aimed to investigate the understanding and views of weight management practices and obesity among Saudi adults. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from October 2022 to January 2023 among adults residing in Saudi Arabia. Participants completed a self-administered 41-item questionnaire designed to assess their understanding and views regarding weight management practices and obesity. RESULTS: A total of 1066 participants completed the survey. Gender distribution showed a majority of males (55.7%). Age-wise, the majority fell below 51 years, with 37.7% (young) between 18–24, 32.7% (young adult) between 25–33, and 21.3% (adult) between 34–51. Employment was reported by one-third (n = 315) of respondents, while 22.0% (n = 234) had a history of chronic diseases. Furthermore, 77.3% (n = 824) engaged in regular physical activity.The study results revealed that participants’ mean score for understanding obesity was 3.28 ± 2.37 (range 0–6), while the average views score was 28.08 ± 8.79 (range 0–34). Furthermore, females displayed a higher level of understanding compared to males. Employment status also played a significant role, with employed individuals having a better understanding of obesity than those who were unemployed. Moreover, participants with higher qualifications demonstrated a more comprehensive understanding of obesity compared to those with lower qualifications. Additionally, individuals with higher monthly income levels displayed a greater understanding of obesity compared to those with lower incomes. Lastly, participants who engaged in regular physical activity exhibited a higher level of understanding compared to those who were physically inactive. CONCLUSION: The study indicates that factors such as being older, being female, being employed, having higher education and income, and engaging in regular physical activity are associated with increased understanding and favorable views regarding weight management practices and obesity.