Experiences of recent weight-management attempts: insights from a web-based cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Obesity Research
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Understanding barriers to weight loss is crucial for effective intervention design.
• This study focuses on Bahraini adults who have previously attempted weight loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine perceived barriers to weight loss among Bahraini adults.
• To identify factors influencing successful weight maintenance in this population.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study conducted from March to July 2023.
• Online questionnaire administered in English and Arabic to 1,453 Bahraini adults.
• Exclusion of individuals with a history of bariatric surgery.

Main Results:

• Overweight and obesity prevalence was 78.2%, higher in women initially but adjusted for confounders.
• Increasing age, marital status (married), unemployment, and retirement were associated with higher obesity odds.
• Weight-loss behaviors like dieting, exercise, and medication use were linked to higher obesity odds, while neutral views on inactivity were linked to lower odds.

Conclusions:

• Sociodemographic and lifestyle factors significantly shape perceptions of obesity.
• Women face greater challenges and rely more on conventional methods.
• Physical inactivity and unhealthy diets are primary barriers to effective weight management.