Beliefs, attitudes and practices of general practitioners, nurses and dietitians towards obesity: a comparative study

Abstract

Background: Literature has been indicating a lack of comparative studies concerning the beliefs, attitudes and practices of GPs, nurses and dietitians about obesity in primary care setting. Methods: A cross-sectional survey, developed for the purpose of this study, was completed by 207 general practitioners, 258 nurses and 163 dietitians, working in primary care setting in the North of Portugal. Descriptive analysis and one-way ANCOVA were conducted. Findings: Attitudes towards obese patients are mainly negative or ambivalent. However, dietitians are significantly different, holding more negative attitudes. They also differ by reporting higher perceived efficacy, fewer difficulties, higher engagement and lower frustration. Dietitians also use more frequently adequate practices and strategies related to behavioral change. On the contrary, GPs and nurses are ambivalent or pessimistic about their feelings and efficiency concerning obesity treatment. Discussion: Dietitians emerge as the best prepared group to deal with obesity treatment being, apparently, less influenced by their negative attitudes. Health policies should promote healthcare professionals education, the increase of available resources and encourage multidisciplinary collaboration. More research is need concerning professionals willing to cooperate with each other.