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Physicians’ own beliefs about obesity influenced patient care

Primary care physician beliefs about diet-related causes of obesity influenced how they counseled patients, according to a recent study.

Researchers surveyed 500 primary care physicians (PCPs) between February and March 2011. Using multivariate logistic regression, they analyzed the relationship between physician beliefs about the causes of obesity and the frequency of corresponding nutritional advice.

“We found no significant association between physicians who believed biological factors (genetics/family history or metabolic defect) were the most important causes of obesity and nutritional counseling habits,” the researchers said.

PCPs who identified overeating as a primary cause of obesity, however, were more likely to counsel patients to reduce portion sizes (OR=3.40; 95% CI, 1.73-6.68) and avoid high-caloric ingredients when preparing foods (OR=2.16; 95% CI, 1.07-4.33).

PCPs who believed eating restaurant/fast food is a chief reason for obesity were more likely to suggest patients avoid consuming high-calorie menu items when dining out (OR=1.93; 95% CI, 1.20-3.11). Physicians who believed that sugar-sweetened beverages are a key cause of obesity were more likely to advise patients to avoid the drinks (OR=5.99; 95% CI, 3.53-10.17).

“Obesity care may improve if evidence-based clinical guidelines on obesity management could align physician beliefs with recommended practice behaviors,” the researchers said.