Weight Reduction for Overweight and Obese Adults: Challenges Experienced In a Nigerian Community

Abstract

Prevalence of overweight and obesity in low/medium income countries is on the increase with associated co-morbidities. This qualitative study was carried out to explore various challenges and barriers experienced by overweight and obese individuals in a sub-Saharan Africa setting. Focus group discussions were conducted in 13 census enumeration areas with a purposive sample size of 83 overweight and obese individuals. The data collected was subjected to thematic analysis after going through rigorous transcriptions from the tape recorder. The three main emerging themes were lack of knowledge about the need to reduce weight and health consequences of overweight, lack of money for consultation and dietary regimen as well as lack of support and motivation from immediate family and friends. This study was able to explore various challenges that impair weight reduction among overweight and obese persons from a low income country. These challenges need to be seriously considered if the increasing tide in the prevalence of overweight and obesity is to be reduced and checked.