Listening to Patients: Perspectives on Obesity Management

Area of Science:

• Qualitative Health Research
• Obesity Management
• Social Ecological Model

Background:

• Growing prevalence of obesity in the United States necessitates understanding patient experiences.
• Patient perspectives are crucial for guiding effective obesity management interventions and programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify patient attitudes, beliefs, and mental models related to obesity management in primary care.
• To explore factors that help or hinder weight management journeys among primarily Latino participants.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing a social ecological model lens.
• Thematic analysis of interviews with 8 adult participants from a low-income neighborhood clinic in San Antonio.
• Participants had a mean BMI of 36.1 mg/m2 and faced challenges with previous lifestyle changes.

Main Results:

• Six themes emerged: Barriers to Weight Loss, Consequences of Obesity, Previous Lifestyle Changes, Effective Strategies, Motivation for Managing Obesity, and Levels of Support.
• Social support, especially from family and community, was a key motivator and facilitator.
• Patients prefer patient-centered communication, collaborative risk assessment, and practical, ongoing support over information alone.

Conclusions:

• Obesity management is influenced by interconnected socioeconomic, cultural, and interpersonal factors.
• Culturally responsive, multidisciplinary, and resource-oriented interventions are essential.
• Effective strategies should incorporate social support and patient-centered communication from healthcare providers.