Exploring the role of community pharmacists in addressing obesity

A Saudi Arabian perspective

Bibliographic Data

ID22087290
AuthorsOthman AlOmeir (0000-0002-3800-6825, Shaqra University), Mansour Almuqbil (0000-0003-4768-1838, King Saud University), Hanaa Ali Alhabshi (Almaarefa University), Maha Mahrab Saiel Alenazy, Maha Fahad Alenazy (Almaarefa University), Saleha Mafareh Al-Jaro Masaod Hagwi (Almaarefa University), Walaa F Alsanie (0000-0002-1291-0111, Taif University), Abdulhakeem S Alamri (0000-0003-3174-0434, Taif University), Majid Alhomrani (0000-0001-9798-0962, Taif University), Amal F Alshammary (0000-0002-2136-4001, King Saud University), Rafiulla Gilkaramenthi (0000-0001-6061-9401, Alfaisal University), Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq (0000-0003-1533-9667, Almaarefa University, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume13
Pages1503260-1503260
Publication date2025-03-10
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueFrontiers in Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2296-2565 • E-ISSN: 2296-2565
PublisherFrontiers Media SA (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3389/fpubh.2025.1503260
PMID40129593
OpenAlexW4408299167
LanguageEN
Citations received3
References cited55

Introduction: Obesity has emerged as a significant public health concern in Saudi Arabia, with rising prevalence rates contributing to an increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. Community pharmacists, as accessible healthcare providers, hold the potential to play a critical role in weight management. This study aimed to explore the beliefs, practices, and barriers encountered by community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia regarding weight management. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among community pharmacists to gather data on their perceptions, practices, and barriers related to obesity management. The data obtained were subjected to descriptive and inferential analysis using a multinomial regression model with the help of SPSS-IBM 2025. Results: Findings revealed that while a significant majority (73%) recognize obesity as a pressing health issue, only 31% reported receiving formal education on weight management, which impedes their ability to provide effective counseling. The demographic profile of respondents showed a predominance of male pharmacists (91%) aged between 31 and 40 years, which reflects broader societal trends in healthcare professions in the region. Furthermore, barriers such as inadequate staffing (39%), lack of private consultation spaces (37%), and the necessity for additional payment for weight management services (49%) were identified, underscoring the need for targeted support. Pharmacists showed a strong dedication to helping patients adopt healthier lifestyles. Specifically, 76% of pharmacists provided advice on following low-calorie diets, and 83% encouraged patients to increase their physical activity. However, only 33% regularly dispensed weight loss products, indicating a gap in practice. Discussion: Enhanced education and supportive policies are crucial for pharmacists in obesity management. Future research should focus on developing tailored training programs to fill the knowledge gaps and explore financial incentives to optimize pharmacists' roles in public health initiatives aimed at combating obesity and chronic diseases in Saudi Arabia. By addressing these barriers, community pharmacists can significantly contribute to obesity management and improve health outcomes in their communities

Descriptive statistics · Environmental health · Family medicine · Health care · Obesity · Staffing · Weight loss · Weight management · Medicine · Nursing · Obesity and Health Practices · Pharmaceutical Practices and Patient Outcomes · Pharmacology and Obesity Treatment

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