Obesity Awareness: is it different between individuals with and without obesity?

Abstract Background Obesity remains a major public health issue and a key driver of non-communicable diseases, posing significant health, social, and economic burdens globally. An accurate evaluation of obesity awareness, including individuals’ understanding of physical activity, nutritional habits, and obesity education, is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. This study aimed to assess obesity awareness among Portuguese adults with and without obesity. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey directed to Portuguese adults. The Obesity Awareness Scale (OAS) adapted for the Portuguese language, was used to assess obesity awareness, with higher scores indicating a higher level of obesity awareness. Reported weight and height were used to calculate the body mass index (BMI), classified according to World Health Organization standards. Statistical analysis included t-tests and Pearson's correlation tests, with a 5% significance level. Results A total of 3333 adults were surveyed: mean age 49 years (±12.25), 85.4% female, 79.7% with higher education, 76.1% employed full-time. According to calculated BMI, 35.5% (n = 1175) had obesity. In the full sample, the mean OAS score was 62.67 (±5.11), with 65.4% presenting a high level of obesity awareness. Individuals with obesity (n = 1175) presented lower levels of obesity awareness compared with individuals without obesity (n = 2094) (62.67±5.11 vs. 61.88 ±5.24, p = 0.012). In those without obesity, 69.3% demonstrated a high level of awareness, while in the subgroup of individuals with obesity, the percentage was 58.5% (p < 0.001). Conclusions Despite the overall high level of awareness in the general population, this study highlights that obesity awareness is lower among individuals with obesity compared to those without obesity. These findings suggest the need for targeted health education and interventions to close the awareness gap, particularly for individuals with obesity. Key messages • This study highlights lower obesity awareness among individuals with obesity compared to those without, underscoring the need for targeted health education and interventions. • Improving obesity awareness may contribute to more effective prevention and management strategies for obesity-related health issues.