Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Bariatric Surgery Among Treatment-Seeking Patients with Obesity: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: This study evaluated knowledge of and attitudes toward bariatric surgery and obesity treatment options among adults seeking obesity treatment at a tertiary obesity center. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 249 adults attending the center between December 2023 and February 2024 completed a structured questionnaire developed from the literature and expert opinion. The questionnaire assessed sociodemographic characteristics, awareness of bariatric surgery, knowledge of treatment options, surgical expectations, and postoperative care knowledge. It was pilot-tested before implementation. Psychiatric evaluations were conducted by experienced psychiatrists after questionnaire completion. Results: More than half of the participants reported awareness of bariatric surgery; however, knowledge of surgical procedures and postoperative management was limited. Only 14 participants (5.6%) correctly identified all recommended obesity treatment approaches. Educational level showed weak but significant associations with selected knowledge indicators, whereas gender was not significantly associated with most outcomes. Health-related problems and impaired daily functioning were the most frequently reported reasons for considering surgery. Conclusions: Adults seeking obesity treatment had limited knowledge of bariatric surgery and postoperative requirements. Structured preoperative education and psychosocial assessment may support informed decision-making, realistic expectations, and long-term postoperative adherence among bariatric surgery candidates within multidisciplinary obesity care and surgical preparation processes in practice.