Current dietetic practices of obesity management in Saudi Arabia and comparison with Australian practices and best practice criteria

Abstract

Objective: To describe the dietetic practices of the treatment of obesity in Saudi Arabia and compare this with best practice criteria and the practice in Australia. Methods: Anonymous questionnaires were completed by dietitians in Saudi Arabia. The topics included barriers to obesity management, demand and level of service and strategies and approaches used for weight management. Best practice scores were based on those used to assess Australian dietitians. Results: 253 dietitians participated in the survey. Of these, 175 (69 %) were involved in the management of obesity. The best practice score for Australian dietitians was slightly but significantly greater than the scores of Saudi dietitians (mean 41.6 vs 38.8; p <0.001), (median 43 vs 39). There was also a significant correlation between the best practice score and years of experience (r = 0.26, p <0.001). The most common assessment approaches were assessment of BMI (87%) and exercise habits (81%) while the most common strategies for obesity management were; dietary total fat reduction (92%) and increase incidental daily activity (92%). The major barrier for establishment of a weight management clinic reported by 49% of participants was inadequate resources. Conclusion: Saudi Arabian dietetic practice for the management of obesity does incorporate most best practice recommendations, but some specific elements are rarely used.

Management of adult overweight and obesity: Consultation characteristics and treatment approaches of private practice dietitians

“…While the combination of diet and exercise is crucial to managing weight, the dietary component is the area in which the dietitian is most familiar. It is encouraging that the dietitians recognised the importance of regular physical activity and incorporated it into their consultation in some format, a finding that is consistent with that of studies on British, Canadian, Australian and Saudi Arabian dietitians 5–8,15,16 . Over two‐thirds of the dietitians frequently incorporated behaviour modification techniques into their practice, which is similar to their international counterparts 5–8 .…”

“…It is encouraging that the dietitians recognised the importance of regular physical activity and incorporated it into their consultation in some format, a finding that is consistent with that of studies on British, Canadian, Australian and Saudi Arabian dietitians. [5][6][7][8]15,16 Over two-thirds of the dietitians frequently incorporated behaviour modification techniques into their practice, which is similar to their international counterparts. [5][6][7][8] Canadian dietitians reported requiring further training in this area, 6 as did 394 British dietitians in a survey where behaviour-therapy training was perceived to be poor.…”

“…[5][6][7][8]15,16 Over two-thirds of the dietitians frequently incorporated behaviour modification techniques into their practice, which is similar to their international counterparts. [5][6][7][8] Canadian dietitians reported requiring further training in this area, 6 as did 394 British dietitians in a survey where behaviour-therapy training was perceived to be poor. 10 Historically dietitians have not received in-depth behaviour modification training; however, as the core role of the dietitian is to help people change their behaviour, these skills have become critical to the set required by this profession to optimally manage weight loss.…”

“…4 Existing literature on British, Canadian, Australian and Saudi Arabian dietitians show that on the whole dietitians use a multidimensional lifestyle-based approach to weight loss treatment and incorporate many evidence-based elements into their practice. [5][6][7][8][9][10] However, an Australian study found that while dietitians considered themselves to be the best trained professionals in the area of weight management, many believed that their specialist weight management training was inadequate and warranted further input. 7 This was echoed by both British and Canadian dietitians, with particular reference to behaviour counselling methods and motivational techniques.…”

Performance of Body Mass Index in Predicting Diabetes and Hypertension: A Study from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia

“…Around three quarters of Saudi dietitians use this tool as outcome measure to assess the success in weight loss 1. BMI is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters (kg/m 2 ).…”