Attitude and Practice regarding Obesity and its Complications among Medical Students of University of Al-Qadissiyah/ Iraq

الملخص

Background: Obesity is a growing health concern worldwide, and Iraqis no exception to this trend .In Iraq, more than half (55%) of all mortality in 2016 was attributable to non-communicable diseases(NCDs) which may be considered as an obesity complications. Medical students represent a vital component of health care system and have a critical role in promoting healthy lifestyle habits and preventing chronic disease, including obesity. Therefore, understanding their attitude and practice regarding obesity is crucial in developing effective interventions to tackle this issue.

Aim of the study: Our study aimed to evaluate the current attitude, and practice regarding obesity and its complications among medical students of university of Al-Qadisiyah.

Participants and method: This college based study was designed to be cross sectional one. The study started from March to July. At the end of study we were able to include 136 participants. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the demographic information and the responses to the questionnaire. Inferential statistics such as Chi-square test, Independent t test and one way ANOVA were used to determine the association between the variables and the level of attitude, and practice among medical students regarding obesity. The level of significance was considered at P ? 0.05.

Results: The study included 36(26.5%) of students from clinical stage and 100 (73.5%) of students from preclinical stage. Students were categorized based on the results of 100 point score into 32 (23.5 %) with Insufficient or low attitude, 96 (70.6 %) with moderate altitude and 8 (5.9 %) with Good or sufficient attitude; the differences in proportions  were statistically insignificant(p=0.380).  The mean 5 points score was 2.36 ±0.95 for all enrolled students. There was insignificant difference in mean 5 points score and in 100 points score between preclinical and clinical groups(p=0.688). Students were categorized based on the results of 100 point score into 81 (59.6 %) with Insufficient or low practice, 53 (39.0 %) with moderate practice and Sufficient or good with Good or sufficient practice; the differences in proportions were statistically insignificant(p=0.391).

Conclusion: Medical students have a good attitude toward obesity except relatively high rate regarding they ashamed of their body if they were fat. Practice toward obesity and its complications was relatively low and as a medical students should be encourage healthy lifestyle for themselves firstly.