Knowledge and practice of adults towards different weight loss methods

INTRODUCTION: Obesity has become a major public health issue worldwide. This study assessed knowledge and practices regarding various pharmacological and non-pharmacological weight loss approaches among 393 adults in Iraq. METHODS: A questionnaire captured data on weight methods used, knowledge of treatable conditions, adverse effects, safety, efficacy, and challenges with long-term adherence. RESULTS: Most participants were obese (64%), female (68%) with mainly being young age groups (18-29) and they were aware (93%) about their weight. Most participants were actively trying methods like fasting/intermittent fasting (20-26%), low-carbohydrates (36%), and exercise to lose weight (39%), driven by health and aesthetic concerns. Understanding of obesity-related diseases, reversible side effects, and medical supervision needs was reasonable. However, crucial knowledge gaps existed regarding nutritional adequacy and unrealistic expectations of sustained weight loss without professional support. The most well-known approaches were intermittent fasting (20-26%), reduced carbohydrate intake (36%) and increased exercise (38.9%). Key information sources were the internet (70%), nutrition specialists (33%), and family/friends (28-29%), rather than formal healthcare providers. Around 60% correctly identified weight reduction and comorbidity prevention as the main goals, though 15% wrongly assumed blood sugar control in non-diabetics. CONCLUSION: These participants were highly concerned about their weight with minimal knowledge and themselves trying different methods to minimise the health impact of obesity; mainly fasting and exercise and participants confirmed that these are safer than other options.