Knowledge and Attitude toward Bariatric Surgery among Family Medicine Residents in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia

Introduction: This study explores the knowledge and attitudes of family medicine residents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, towards bariatric surgery for obesity management. Given the high obesity rates and associated comorbidities, understanding healthcare professionals' perspectives is vital for enhancing patient care and referral practices. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from April 2023 to March 2024, targeting family medicine residents in Riyadh's Cluster 2. The study assessed knowledge and attitudes regarding bariatric surgery's efficacy, safety, and referral standards. The study included actively practicing residents, while those outside Riyadh were excluded. Statistical analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics to correlate knowledge and attitudes with demographic variables. Results: The survey included 109 respondents, predominantly from King Fahad Medical City. Knowledge assessment revealed variable understanding: 85.32% correctly identified the safest surgical technique, while only 16.51% understood the impact on cancer risk. The average knowledge score was 6.56 ± 1.57, with a significant association between perceived and actual knowledge (P < 0.001). Attitudes were generally positive, with 85% acknowledging bariatric surgery's role in diabetes management. However, no significant correlation was found between knowledge levels and attitudes (P = 0.68). There was no significant difference in knowledge or attitudes based on gender or practice setting, though a notable disparity in attitudes emerged, with physicians in primary healthcare centers displaying more favorable views (P = 0.001) towards bariatric surgery compared to their hospital counterparts. Conclusion: Family medicine residents in Riyadh show a promising openness towards bariatric surgery but exhibit gaps in specific knowledge areas. Targeted educational programs could bridge these gaps, potentially improving obesity management through informed referrals and support for bariatric surgery as a viable treatment option.