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Weight loss practices among Malaysian adults
Wai-Theng Kong1, Siew-Siang Chua, Syireen Alwi
1Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health
|July 17, 2003
Summary
Many people try to lose weight, but often have incorrect perceptions about their weight and use ineffective methods. Pharmacists can help improve safe and successful weight loss practices.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Behavior
- Obesity Research
Background:
- Global increase in health consciousness drives weight loss practices.
- Weight management is a growing concern for the general public worldwide.
- Understanding current weight loss behaviors is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the weight loss practices and perceptions of the general public.
- To identify common weight loss methods and their perceived effectiveness.
- To evaluate the role of pharmacies and pharmacists in weight loss support.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted in seven shopping centers in Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas.
- 1032 individuals were approached, with 389 (37.7%) reporting prior weight loss attempts.
- Data collected included weight perceptions, Body Mass Index (BMI), methods used, and sources of weight loss products.
Main Results:
- Over half (50.4%) of respondents had inaccurate weight perceptions, with many underestimating their BMI.
- Dieting (89.5%) and exercise (81%) were the most common methods, while exercise (79.0%) was perceived as most effective.
- Most weight loss products were purchased from pharmacies (60.6%), but pharmacist consultation was low (34.9%).
Conclusions:
- Public awareness regarding accurate weight assessment and effective weight loss strategies needs improvement.
- Pharmacists are well-positioned to provide guidance on safe and effective weight loss.
- Increased pharmacist involvement can enhance successful weight management outcomes for the public.