Systematic literature review on the awareness of obesity in adults and children living with obesity, the general public and healthcare professionals.

Abstract

Objective: Awareness of obesity's causes and risks remains limited, affecting management and support efforts. This review evaluates evidence on obesity awareness across adults and children living with obesity, the general public and healthcare professionals.

Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across three electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science Core Collection, from inception until November 19, 2023. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: (1) children or adults living with overweight or obesity, (2) healthcare providers, (3) general public, and (4) assessed awareness of obesity as a disease, including its complications, causes, and symptoms, using either qualitative or quantitative research methods. Meta-analyses were conducted using the Metafor package in R.

Results: In total, 47 out of 14,871 unique records could be included. Meta-analysis revealed that 83% [0.75, 0.92] of healthcare professionals viewed obesity as a disease, compared to 75% [0.61, 0.89] of adults living with obesity and 68% [0.51, 0.85] of the general public. Cardiovascular diseases (0.83 [0.69, 0.96]) and Type 2 diabetes (0.81 [0.67, 0.95]) were the most commonly recognised complications of obesity. Lack of physical activity (0.82 [0.76, 0.82]) and excessive or unhealthy food intake (0.74 [0.63, 0.85]) were identified as the leading perceived causes. Only 49% [0.35, 0.63] acknowledged the role of genetic factors in contributing to obesity.

Conclusion: Although healthcare professionals were more likely to perceive obesity as a disease compared to the general public, significant awareness gaps persisted across all groups regarding its causes and complications. To bridge these gaps, future interventions focusing on knowledge and awareness concerning obesity should prioritise educating people on the pathophysiology of obesity, as well as the extensive range of its symptoms and complications.