Physician attitudes toward managing obesity: differences among six specialty groups

Area of Science:

• Medical Research
• Public Health
• Physician Education

Background:

• The Healthy People 2000 report urged physicians to address obesity.
• Physician attitudes and practices regarding obesity management are not well understood across specialties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate physician beliefs, attitudes, and practices concerning obesity.
• To explore physician interest in training and resources for obesity management.

Main Methods:

• A mail survey was distributed to 1,222 physicians across six specialties.
• The survey assessed physician perspectives on obesity as a medical risk factor and its management.

Main Results:

• High concern for obesity's health risks was shared across specialties.
• Family practitioners, internists, and endocrinologists reported higher rates of direct obesity treatment compared to other specialties.
• Physicians showed varied interest in managing obesity, with some specialties more inclined towards referrals.

Conclusions:

• Physicians acknowledge obesity management importance but show inconsistent willingness to manage it directly.
• Mild obesity may be under-treated, highlighting a gap in current care.
• Further research is needed to define effective physician roles and develop management guidelines.