Assessment of practice and barriers to lifestyle medicine among physicians in Saudi Arabia-A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Lifestyle medicine (LM) is an evidence-based approach for preventing, treating, and potentially reversing chronic diseases. Despite its benefits, little is known about the extent of LM practice and perceived barriers among physicians, particularly regarding training, resources, and institutional support. To assess LM practices among primary healthcare physicians in Saudi Arabia, identify barriers to adoption, and determine the influence of demographic factors (age, gender, nationality, and prior LM learning experience) on practice. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among physicians in primary healthcare centers and urgent care services across Saudi Arabia using a self-administered, validated questionnaire. Three domains were assessed: frequency of counseling, confidence, and actual LM practice. Barriers to implementation were also explored. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, <i>t</i>-tests, ANOVA, and correlation analyses. Of 400 invited physicians, 115 participated (29% response rate). Family physicians represented 51% of respondents; 56.5% reported receiving LM training. The mean confidence score (M = 3.70 ± 0.86) was significantly higher than both counseling frequency (M = 3.57 ± 0.86) and actual practice (M = 3.55 ± 0.96; <i>P</i> < 0.027). Prior LM training and non-Saudi physicians reported higher practice scores. Strong correlations were observed between confidence and counseling frequency (r = 0.59-0.71, <i>P</i> < 0.001). Reported barriers included time constraints, lack of supportive services, with inadequate resources significantly predicting lower practice (<i>P</i> = 0.012). Physicians demonstrate moderate engagement in LM, with barriers to practice. This requires structured training, curricular integration, and institutional reforms to ensure adequate resources, incentives, and multidisciplinary support.