Weight Loss Treatments
Opinions of Obese Patients
Weight Loss Treatments Study Aim
To investigate the views and opinions on weight loss treatments of adult
obese patients attending a dietetic clinic.
Weight Loss Treatments Study Subjects
161 adults attending dietetic outpatients clinics in Portsmouth for obesity
with a body mass index of at least 30 kg/m2.
Weight Loss Treatments Study Measurements
Self-administered questionnaire developed from a series of focus groups
with obese adults. Key topics were previous attempts to lose weight, methods
used, the role of physical activity and patients' views about treatment
from health professionals.
Weight Loss Treatments Study Results
The preferences and usefulness of different methods to lose weight varied
according to the number of attempts to lose weight, gender, age, body
mass index and medical condition of the patient. Men were less likely
to use special slimming products, attend slimming groups and swimming
than women. Men were more likely to use physical activity and in particular
walking and cycling and were more likely to see the dietician than women.
Those with more than 10 attempts to lose weight were more likely to see
the dietician, use Weight Watchers and newspapers and magazines than those
with fewer attempts. The younger age group were more likely to use more
vigorous forms of exercise for keep fit than the older subjects. The most
obese were more likely to have negative views on their treatment by health
professionals 'chairs are never big enough' and 'I am regarded as a second
class citizen' than those who were less obese. Those without a medical
condition were more likely to exercise and use books than those with a
medical condition.
Weight Loss Treatments Study Conclusion
The views of obese people should be considered when planning services
for the treatment of obesity and a variety of options should be available.
Source: International Journal of Obesity
(2000)
|
com