Barriers to and facilitators of weight reduction in young adults with obesity: a qualitative study in an urban setting in Sri Lanka.

Abstract

This study explored the barriers to and facilitators of weight reduction among urban, young adults with obesity in Sri Lanka. A qualitative descriptive study, using the framework method in thematic analysis to identify key themes for barriers and facilitators. An urban community setting in Sri Lanka in January-March 2022. 62 young adults (18-35 years) with obesity (body mass index ≥25 kgm^-2) representing different socio-demographic characteristics were recruited into the focus group discussions (n=10). The majority of participants were women (n=40; 64.5%). More than 70% (n=45) of the participants were classified as having class I obesity. Inconsistent knowledge, emotions and mood, poor self-control, inadequate support from others, lack of time, lack of resources and facilities and unsafe environment for physical activities were the identified barriers. The desire to improve appearance and body image, health-related concerns, limitations to day-to-day activities, previous positive experiences, support from others and weight-related victimisation were identified as facilitators. A multitude of factors were found to interfere with weight-reduction attempts. Due consideration of these barriers and facilitators is important when planning weight management programmes targeting young adults with obesity.