Health Behaviors Associated With Overweight and Obesity Among Physicians

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Public Health
• Physician Wellness

Background:

• Physician overweight and obesity impact workforce health, patient care quality, and credibility of lifestyle advice.
• Physician lifestyle behaviors like diet and physical activity are crucial for maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI).
• Limited data exist on specific lifestyle behaviors associated with BMI in the physician population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between self-reported health behaviors and BMI among physicians.
• To identify lifestyle factors associated with overweight and obesity in physicians.
• To inform workplace wellness strategies for physicians.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey was conducted using the Healthy Lifestyle and Personal Control Questionnaire (HLPCQ).
• Physicians were categorized by BMI into normal weight (BMI < 25) and overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25) groups.
• Statistical analyses included group comparisons and multivariable logistic regression.

Main Results:

• Higher BMI in physicians correlated with reduced adherence to Dietary Harm Avoidance, Daily Routine, and Organized Physical Exercise.
• Dietary Harm Avoidance and Organized Physical Exercise were identified as protective factors against overweight and obesity.
• Physicians in surgical specialties reported lower health behavior scores, especially in Daily Routine and overall lifestyle.

Conclusions:

• Specific lifestyle behaviors, particularly dietary habits and physical activity, are significantly associated with physician BMI.
• Findings suggest that interventions targeting these modifiable behaviors could address overweight and obesity among physicians.
• Further research into behavioral factors influencing physician BMI is warranted to enhance physician wellness programs.