AN ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS OBESITY AMONG A SAMPLE OF COLLEGES STUDENTS IN KARBALA PROVINCE - IRAQ

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a significant global public health issue, becoming increasingly prevalent as dietary habits and physical activities change. It is linked to conditions such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, gallstones, and diabetes. Young people play a crucial role in the community, and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding obesity can positively impact their families and the broader community. Understanding the perspectives and beliefs of young individuals is essential. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducting to assess the knowledge and attitudes of undergraduate students towards obesity in Karbala Province.
Methodology: A sample of undergraduate students was surveyed to assess their knowledge and attitudes towards obesity between November 1, 2023, and April 29, 2024. The study included 444 participants chosen through a simple random sampling technique. A self-administered questionnaire, comprising two sections, was used to gather data. The first section covered demographic characteristics, while the second section assessed knowledge and attitudes based on criteria designed by the researchers according to WHO guidelines. Experts before implementation reviewed the questionnaire.
Result:- Out of the total sample in the study, 284(64%) were females and 160 (36%) males. 59.9 % of the participants was in the age group ≤ 20 years. As overall assessment for obesity knowledge level, 54 % had Good & Acceptable score. On the other hands, more than 86% had positive attitude score.
Conclusion: - More than half of participants demonstrated good awareness about obesity. Moreover, 86% of the students exhibited a highly positive attitude towards reducing obesity.