Knowledge, Attitude, and Prevalence of Lifestyle medicine Practice among Family Physicians in Primary care centers in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background:
Lifestyle medicine is the adoption of lifestyle interventions in the management and treatment of disorders. It encourages lifestyle modifications to prevent, effectively manage, and reverse the progression of underlying chronic diseases. A healthy life includes regular physical activity, a balanced nutritional diet, and stress-free living. Primary healthcare centers have a vital role in promoting health and they are the first access for the individuals to the healthcare system. Family physicians are better able to counsel patients toward better health and offer guidance on good lifestyle choices if they adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Aim:
To assess knowledge, attitude, and prevalence of lifestyle medicine practices among family physicians in Saudi Arabia.
Methods:
Using a cross-sectional design this study included family physicians and the selection of the participants was based on inclusion criteria. The study was performed using an online survey using Google Docs which was distributed via various social media platforms. The questionnaire involved three major sections, that investigated the demographics of physicians, and their general health as well as it involved lifestyle questions.
Results:
The study included 57 physicians, 22.8% had excellent health and 42.1% had healthy eating habits. The mean±SD scores of mental health and attitude were 5.3±1.8 and 39.8±7.1, respectively. There 77.2% reported regularly reading research journals and being updated on treatment guidelines.
Conclusion:
Family physicians need to increase their knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding lifestyle medicine. Also, they need to improve their physical practice and adopt healthy eating habits. However, they have a good degree of counseling patients on exercise and nutrition.