KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES OF POPULATION IN KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA (KSA) TOWARD USING OF ANTIDIABETIC MEDICATIONS FOR WEIGHT LOSS: A CROSS - SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Obesity has evolved into a major global health concern and it’s considered as a significant risk factor for a variety of illnesses. Obesity-related conditions include but not limited to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, etc. Over the past few decades, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has witnessed a noticeable transition in living standards and adopted westernized lifestyle and we see the impact of this on population’s health. In the near future the number of patients suffering from T2DM is expected to be increased. There were several studies conducted in different regions of Saudi Arabia highlighting the knowledge and attitude of population toward using antidiabetic medications for weight loss. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the knowledge and practices level of using Antidiabetic medications for weight loss among Saudi Arabia population.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from July to December 2024. The participants who were recruited they received the questionnaire through social media networks (X platform, WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.). The survey consists of two sections demographic data and other section covered two aspects of the participant's knowledge and practices toward using of antidiabetic medications for weight reduction. The inclusion criteria are KSA residents aged more than 18 years. The minimum sample size is 384 was calculated using the Raosoft online, 95 % confidence level, and 5 % margin of error then analyzed data using SPSS program. 

Results: The study included 384 participants in Saudi Arabia, significant findings emerged. The mean age of the cohort was 32.3 years, predominantly female (68.2%), and 60.2% displayed knowledge about these medications. Notably, 57.3% believed that using antidiabetics for weight loss was inappropriate, while 77.1% had never attempted this approach. Concerns about access and side effects were prevalent, with a mere 5.5% of participants demonstrating high knowledge and only 5.2% reporting high usage practices, highlighting a critical need for improved education in this area. Statistically significant relationships were found between knowledge and demographic factors, as well as practice behaviors.

Conclusion: Our study highlights significant gaps in knowledge and practices regarding the use of antidiabetic medications for weight loss among the population in KSA. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted educational interventions to address misconceptions and enhance understanding of these medications' benefits and risks.