Obesity Knowledge, Practice, and Attitudes among Jordanian Universities Students

Abstract

Objectives

Obesity is a growing epidemic with well-known causes and negative consequences. The goal of this study was to compare the level of obesity knowledge among Jordanian medical and non-medical students across academic years and colleges, as well as to compare it to other studies of a similar nature.

Methods

This is a cross -sectional KAP- study about obesity involving medical and non-medical students from 15 different colleges representing 19 academic institutions carried out from January 2023 to April 2023. Participants were contacted electronically through a specifically designed questionnaire after IRB approval.

Results

A total of 507 questionnaires were distributed, with 503 being returned completed, for a response rate of 99.2%. Females and medical students responded significantly more positively than their counterparts on most of the knowledge, attitude, and practice items. (P < 0.05).

Discussion

Health care professionals have a crucial role in educating public about the risks of obesity and providing guidance and assistance to help them maintain a healthy body weight.

Conclusion

Females and medical students demonstrated more positive knowledge and attitude than other college students.