Gender Differences in the Attitudes and Management of People with Obesity in Saudi Arabia: Data from the ACTION-IO Study

Abstract

Purpose Several studies have investigated gender differences in various obesity-related outcomes. Females were found to have more accurate weight perception and reported more frequency of attempted weight loss. The objective of this study was to assess gender differences in the attitudes and management of people with obesity (PwO) in Saudi Arabia using data from the ACTION-IO study. Patients and Methods A survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia in June and July 2018 on adults with obesity (based on self-reported body mass index of ≥30 kg/m 2 ). Results A total of 1000 people with obesity completed the survey; 565 (56.5%) were male (mean age of 36.9 years and mean BMI of 33.5 kg/m 2 ) and 435 (43.5%) were female (mean age of 36.3 years and mean BMI of 34.5 kg/m 2 ). The two most reported motivations for wanting to lose weight for both groups were to improve appearance (38%) and to have more energy (35%). Females were more likely to trust their health-care provider (HCP) advice about weight management when compared to males (87% females, 82% males, p = 0.059) and were more likely to have concerns regarding long-term safety associated with prescription weight loss medications (65% female versus 59% males, p = 0.043). On the other hand, males were more likely to seek their physician to prescribe weight loss medication if they hear of a new medication (55% males versus 46% females, p = 0.014), and more to believe that there are good options available for weight loss medications (74% males versus 67% females, p = 0.040). Also, more males prefer to take weight loss medications than to have a weight loss surgery (65% males, 59% females, p = 0.054). Conclusion Overall, this study increases our understanding on the attitudes of both females and males towards the management of weight loss and opens the discussion for gender-specific weight loss interventions.

Multidisciplinary consensus recommendations for management of hepatocellular carcinoma in Middle East and North Africa region

“…The pooled estimated prevalence of obesity, an independent risk factor for HCC, in the MENA region is 21.17% with Qatar reporting the highest prevalence with approximately 46.1% of adult women (aged 18 years and over) and 35.9% of adult men living with obesity followed by KSA (33.7%) and UAE (31.7%). [33][34][35] In Egypt, approximately 46.3% females are obese in comparison to approximately 22.5% of males. 36 In some countries such as Egypt, exposure to inorganic compounds like pesticides and fertilizers has been suggested to be an independent risk factor for HCC.…”

Saudi Adults’ Understanding and Views of Weight Management Practices and Obesity

“…3 In addition, a recent study in Saudi Arabia revealed obesity prevalence rates of 33.7% and overweight prevalence rates of 68.2%, indicating that both are becoming more common. 6 Furthermore, the WHO reported that the Gulf regions had the highest rates of obesity and that Saudi Arabia was second in terms of its prevalence in 2022. 4 In recent years, the society shift towards urbanization, technology-driven sedentary lifestyles, and changing dietary habits have drove the global rise in obesity and overweight.…”

“…7 Overweight and obesity are rising everywhere due to several factors, including adopting a Westernized culture and a sedentary lifestyle. 6,8 These lifestyle changes, combined with genetic factors, underline the urgency of addressing this complex issue. 9 Obesity has a significant economic burden, with rising healthcare costs and decreased productivity.…”

“…Such data are an important element of attempts to curtail their prevalence. 6,8,37 Therefore, this study aimed to assess Saudi adults' understanding and views of weight management practices and obesity. In addition to the global and regional impact, it is crucial to recognize that obesity and overweight are complicated issues that affect individuals.…”

“…These results were similar to earlier findings, which reported that most participants would rather lose weight through diet and exercise than through weight loss surgery. 6 Although the same study suggested good options for weight loss medication, it acknowledged that these are not necessarily safe. 6 Furthermore, medications used to treat obesity should be used over a long period, which may lead to adverse events.…”