Systematic literature review on the awareness of obesity in adults and children living with obesity, the general public and healthcare professionals
Authors' conclusion
Although healthcare professionals were more likely to perceive obesity as a disease compared to the general public, significant awareness gaps persisted across all groups regarding its causes and complications. To bridge these gaps, future interventions focusing on knowledge and awareness concerning obesity should prioritise educating people on the pathophysiology of obesity, as well as the extensive range of its symptoms and complications.
Study context
- Population
- Children or adults living with overweight or obesity, healthcare providers and the general public; studies assessing awareness of obesity as a disease (complications, causes, symptoms); PubMed, Embase, Web of Science to November 19, 202347 studies included
- Comparison
- Obesity awareness across healthcare professionals, adults living with obesity and the general public
- Outcome
- Viewed obesity as a disease
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
Further pooled results
Most commonly recognised complications of obesity
- CVD
- 0.83 [0.69, 0.96]
- T2D
- 0.81 [0.67, 0.95]
Leading perceived causes of obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- 0.82 [0.76, 0.82]
- Excessive or unhealthy food intake
- 0.74 [0.63, 0.85]
- Acknowledged role of genetic factors
- 49% [0.35, 0.63]
Original publication
Systematic literature review on the awareness of obesity in adults and children living with obesity, the general public and healthcare professionals. Int J Obes (Lond). Published 23 July 2025. doi:10.
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