Effectiveness of Obesity Management Education for Healthcare Professionals: A Rapid Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Healthcare professionals (HCPs) play a critical role in obesity management, yet many report inadequate training, low confidence and stigma-related attitudes. While education programmes have been developed to address these issues, evidence of their effectiveness remains mixed. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of structured education and training programmes in improving HCPs' practice competencies in obesity management. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, ERIC and Google Scholar for studies published from 2020 assessing structured obesity management education programmes for HCPs. Eligible studies reported outcomes related to practice competencies (knowledge, skills and practice behaviours, confidence, attitudes) or patient outcomes (weight loss). Standardised mean differences (SMDs) were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed using I² and Q statistics, and subgroup analyses explored potential sources. Studies not included in the meta-analysis were summarised descriptively. Eighteen studies were included from 1683 records. Pooled analysis of four RCTs and three non-RCTs showed a significant improvement in practice competencies (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI 0.12–0.70, p < 0.01) with high heterogeneity (I² = 60%). Effects were significant in RCTs (SMD = 0.53, 95% CI 0.10–0.95, p = 0.01), but not non-RCTs (SMD = 0.25, 95% CI −0.04 to 0.55, p = 0.09). Interventions lasting ≥ 4 h produced larger, significant effects (SMD = 0.68, 95% CI 0.30–1.07, p < 0.01), while shorter interventions did not. Quasi-experimental studies supported improvements across HCP competencies and occasionally, patient outcomes. Structured education and training programmes may improve HCP competencies in obesity management, particularly confidence, with stronger effects generally observed in longer, more comprehensive interventions (≥ 4 h).