Weight Loss Experiences Of Obese Individuals; Qualitative Study

Abstract

Objective: Obesity is a leading preventable cause of death worldwide. Being overweight or obese has a serious impact on health. Treatment of obesity needs a comprehensive approach. Biopsychosocial approach of family physicians is invaluable in obesity management. In this study, we aimed to evaluate experiences of obese individuals during their weight-losing attempts and to explore the factors affecting success and failure of different approaches. Methods: We conducted indepth, semi-structured, face to face interviews with 30 participants whose Body Mass Index was higher than 30). Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed, and qualitatively analysed using a thematic framework method. Results: 26 women and 4 men have accepted to join our study. Analysis of in depth interviews emerged 5 major themes which were: the different perception of obesity among individuals; awareness of obesity; loss of self-confidence; belief in treatment and effects on quality of life. Conclusions: Each patient has a different need and different expectation while controlling weight. As a part of biopsychosocial approach the family physician needs to understand the factors that bring the patient to current condition and see which approach would be the best for individual patient for weight management.