Challenges to lifestyle modification of chronic disease patients attending primary health care centers in Riyadh.

Abstract

The rate of chronic diseases is increasing due to the global pandemic of inactivity and an unhealthy diet. We aimed to determine the dietary habits, physical activities of the participants, and challenges facing them to adapt to a healthy lifestyle. The researchers conducted a cross-sectional study on chronic disease patients attending primary health care centers in Riyadh from January to March 2018. The estimated sample size was 250 patients. The participants completed a self-administered questionnaire. The mean age of the 250 participants was 35.3 years old. The Overweight and obese participants accounted for 67.2% of the sample (mean BMI = 28.0). Two-thirds of the participants depend mainly on rice or pasta for their diet, and 48.4-52.0% eat fruits and vegetables less than three times a week. About 50% of the participants perceived a lack of information, skills, motivation, and family or friends support as a barrier to a healthy diet. Also, (56.4%) of males and (67.8%) of females are physically inactive. Accessibility, cost, and the hot climate were physical activity obstacles in more than 60% of the respondents. Optimal BMI showed a significant association with increased physical activity <i>P</i> = 0.04. Physical inactivity and consuming a non-balanced diet are common. So awareness campaigns of the benefit of a healthy lifestyle besides increasing physical exercise facilities, installing environmental changes, and subsidizing sports gyms would encourage people to be more physically active.