Describing the views of Canadian post-secondary students in health-related disciplines on the recognition of obesity as a chronic disease.
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| Title: | Describing the views of Canadian post-secondary students in health-related disciplines on the recognition of obesity as a chronic disease. |
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| Authors: | Nagpal, Taniya S., Furlano, Joyla A., Reilly, Kristen C., Karmali, Shazya, Prapavessis, Harry, Mottola, Michelle F., Burke, Shauna M., Vanderloo, Leigh M. |
| Source: | Journal of American College Health. May/Jun2024, Vol. 72 Issue 4, p1023-1026. 4p. |
| Subjects: | Cross-sectional method, Curriculum, Content analysis, Descriptive statistics, Chronic diseases, Thematic analysis, Health behavior, College students, Student attitudes, Health promotion, Obesity, Social stigma |
| Abstract: | This cross-sectional study examined students' perspectives on the ramifications of obesity being recognized as a chronic disease in Canada. Undergraduate and graduate students (n = 150) in health-related programs at a major Canadian university. An online survey featured open-ended questions to capture student perspectives on recognizing obesity as a disease. Data were evaluated using content analysis methods. Positive themes identified included: (a) treatment accessibility; (b) improved healthcare provider attitudes; (c) de-stigmatization of obesity; (d) promotion of health behaviors; and (e) greater research/funding. Negative themes included potential: (a) healthcare system burdens; (b) perpetuation of obesity stigma; (c) medicalization of obesity; and (d) de-emphasis on modifiable risk factors as contributing to obesity. There is a need to increase students' understanding of the multifaceted nature of obesity and the prevention of obesity-related stigma within healthcare. Findings may inform post-secondary health curricula and obesity initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
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| Abstract: | This cross-sectional study examined students' perspectives on the ramifications of obesity being recognized as a chronic disease in Canada. Undergraduate and graduate students (n = 150) in health-related programs at a major Canadian university. An online survey featured open-ended questions to capture student perspectives on recognizing obesity as a disease. Data were evaluated using content analysis methods. Positive themes identified included: (a) treatment accessibility; (b) improved healthcare provider attitudes; (c) de-stigmatization of obesity; (d) promotion of health behaviors; and (e) greater research/funding. Negative themes included potential: (a) healthcare system burdens; (b) perpetuation of obesity stigma; (c) medicalization of obesity; and (d) de-emphasis on modifiable risk factors as contributing to obesity. There is a need to increase students' understanding of the multifaceted nature of obesity and the prevention of obesity-related stigma within healthcare. Findings may inform post-secondary health curricula and obesity initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| ISSN: | 07448481 |
| DOI: | 10.1080/07448481.2022.2074279 |
