Abstract
Objective: To examine the effects of an integrated intervention program on the knowledge/skills, self-efficacy, and weight management practices among General Practitioners (GPs). Methods: A quasi-experimental (pre-and post-test) design was used. A convenience sample of 118 GPs from two community health services in Shanghai, China was recruited. The interventions included two 100 min training lectures with educational materials, including guidelines, brochures, and posters. Data were collected via self-administered questionnaires to measure knowledge/skills, self-efficacy, and practices regarding weight management at baseline and three-month post-intervention. Results: Overall, the knowledge/skills, self-efficacy, and practices related to obesity management among GPs were improved. There were significant increases in the frequencies of all items describing weight management practice after the intervention (P<0.05). The number of participants who rated themselves at the “high” level of weight management skills/knowledge increased significantly (P<0.05). The scores of self-efficacy increased in eight items, with the total score of the scale were observed to be increased when compared to pre-intervention (P<0.05). Conclusion: The integrated intervention program improved GPs’ knowledge/skills, self-efficacy, and professional practices. Comprehensive and specific strategies based on GPs’ professional behaviors and attitudes are expected to be developed in the future.
Highlights
A nationally representative survey conducted in 2008 found that only half (49%) General Practitioners (GPs) recorded Body Mass Index (BMI) regularly and less than 50% provided specific guidance on diet, physical activity, and/ or weight control [5]
There was a difference in the number of preand post-intervention questionnaires due to the voluntary nature of participation
The results suggested that the percentage of GPs who rarely performed weight management significantly decreased after the intervention program (P
Summary
Obesity was once considered a problem only for high-income countries. in recent years, developing countries are experiencing an increased prevalence of obesity. The 2014 China National Physique Monitoring Bulletin of a large random sample (n=531,849) reported an elevated prevalence of both overweight (32.7%) and obesity (10.5%) [1]. Guidelines for Prevention and Control of Overweight and Obesity in Adults [2] recommend that primary care clinicians, especially General Practitioners (GPs), are responsible for monitoring and managing patients’ weight by assisting in behavior changes. In 2016, there were approximately 209,000 GPs in China [3] These individuals are responsible for health consultation, epidemic prevention, community rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and other health services in the primary healthcare system. An earlier study found that only 55% GPs assessed patients’ weight and 25% evaluated daily exercise in the US. A longitudinal study found no change in the positive response to the statement “Noticing patients overweight and guidance of treatment” in GPs over the course of 15 years (1992-2007).
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