Abstract

Objective: To investigate the attitude and knowledge of the Saudi community in Jazan City regarding obesity.
Methods: A sample of 480 citizens participated in the study, which was conducted in 2023. The average age of the population was 30 years. Consenting participants completed an anonymous online questionnaire requesting information on their demographics, obesity risk factors, and opinions on bariatric surgery.
Results: Most of the study participants (87.3%) were aged 18 - 40 years. Females represented 56.5% and 43.5% were males; 61.5% had a bachelor’s degree (RS, 27.3% > 10,000 RS); 61.7% were single, and 38.3% were married. The mean height of the study population was 162.05 ± 9.825, with a mean weight of 69.12 ± 18.195 and a body mass index of 26.11 ± 6. The primary causes of obesity were lack of exercise and excessive eating. Furthermore, 64% had a positive family history of obesity; 72% had good knowledge, 28% had moderate knowledge, and

Key words: Weight loss, bariatric surgery, obesity prevention, Saudi Arabia