Experiences of Barriers and Motivators to Weight-Loss among Saudi People with Overweight or Obesity in Qassim Region - A Qualitative Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND:Obesity has become a global health threat. Saudi Arabia ranks among the countries with high obesity and overweight rates. This study aims to explore experiences of Saudi people with overweight or obesity with a particular focus on the perceived barriers and motivators to weight loss.MATERIAL AND METHODS:We used a qualitative approach to recruiting a purposive sample using maximum variation sampling technique. Those who had previously attempted weight loss at least once were included in the study. In-depth interviews were conducted, transcribed and/ or audiotaped. Interviews continued until saturation was reached. The qualitative content analysis was performed.RESULTS:A total of 19 males and 18 females participated in this study with a mean Body Mass Index (BMI) of 32.6 kg/m2. Their main triggers to weight loss were concerns about overall health and the desire to improve their looks. Declining motivation, lack of family support and unhealthy eating during social gatherings were perceived as the main barriers. Motivating factors included concerns about health, family support, and availability of exercise facilities.CONCLUSION:Factors responsible for a successful weight- loss is context-specific. This study has shown several barriers as well as motivators, which play an important role in weight reduction and maintenance.

Motivations of Males with Severe Obesity, Who Pursue Medical Weight Management or Bariatric Surgery

“…Improving physical health and body image were the two biggest drivers for males with obesity seeking MWM in Al-Mohaimeed's mixed-gender study. 5 Patients described being motivated to seek MWM by improving quality of life, and in particular, by their increasing loss of independence, which supports our study findings. 5 Two mixed-gender studies noted that functionality was a motivator for participants with obesity and severe obesity pursuing bariatric surgery.…”

“…5 Patients described being motivated to seek MWM by improving quality of life, and in particular, by their increasing loss of independence, which supports our study findings. 5 Two mixed-gender studies noted that functionality was a motivator for participants with obesity and severe obesity pursuing bariatric surgery. 8,9 In particular, Wee found that males were motivated by poor physical functioning.…”

“…an ideal body image was a primary motivator for only 16% of its participants. 5 Only 2 males with obesity mentioned appearance as a motivator for weight loss in Brink and Ferguson's mixed-gender study among 76 men who were seeking to lose weight. 6 Hankey's secondary analysis reported that ''improved appearance'' was the primary reason for weight loss for men 30-40 years of age, while younger men (18-29 years old) ranked this second.…”

“…Two mixed-gender studies discussed subanalyses of male motivations for MWM such as wanting to improve overall physical health and well-being, as well as the desire to have an ideal body image. 5,6 Studies on male motivations for seeking bariatric surgery are limited by low numbers of male patients. Several mixed-gender studies reported subanalyses of male patients' motivations for pursuing bariatric surgery, including medical conditions and health concerns, weight stigma, and reduced work functioning.…”

“Why The Scale Goes Up Again?” A Socio-Ecological Exploration of Weight Loss Challenges among Female University Students

“…The challenges in losing weight are influenced by several issues at differing levels of the socio-ecological model. At the individual level, the list of barriers to weight management and sustainability includes low nutrition knowledge and skills (Ali, Baynouna & Bernsen, 2010), low motivation (Al-Mohaimeed & Elmannan, 2017;Metzgar et al, 2014;Abolhassani et al, 2012;Befort et al, 2008) and health problems (Abolhassani et al, 2012;Metzgar et al, 2014;Ali et al, 2010). At the interpersonal level, the biggest challenges are lack of family support (Al-Mohaimeed & Elmannan, 2017;Abolhassani et al, 2012;Metzgar et al, 2014) and competing demands, especially lacking the time for child care (Ali et al, 2010).…”