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The Perception of Overweight and Obesity among South African Adults: Implications for Intervention Strategies

Author

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  • Mashudu Manafe

    (Department of Human Nutrition & Dietetics, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0001, South Africa)

  • Paul Kiprono Chelule

    (Department of Public Health, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0001, South Africa)

  • Sphiwe Madiba

    (Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Limpopo, Mankweng 0727, South Africa)

Abstract

Obesity is a public health problem, affecting more than half of the global population. Perceptions and beliefs play a significant role in preventing and managing overweight and obesity. Thus, the paper explores own perception of overweight and obesity on personal health among South African adults. This was a qualitative study in which the participants ( n = 24) were interviewed in-depth on their perception of obesity and health. Thematic analysis was used in data assessment. The results revealed four main themes: perceived causes of obesity, self-perception of being obese, perception of obesity, health, and cultural beliefs. Environmental and personal factors were perceived as the leading cause of overweight and obesity. The findings further showed that body weight preference was personal and differed from individual to individual. The study provided insight into perceptions of obesity from individuals’ perspectives. The misperceptions of overweight and obesity are helpful in the design of impactful intervention programmes that can be used to prevent and manage obesity in South Africa.

Suggested Citation

  • Mashudu Manafe & Paul Kiprono Chelule & Sphiwe Madiba, 2022. "The Perception of Overweight and Obesity among South African Adults: Implications for Intervention Strategies," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(19), pages 1-10, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:19:p:12335-:d:927739
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Eva Goetjes & Milena Pavlova & Charles Hongoro & Wim Groot, 2021. "Socioeconomic Inequalities and Obesity in South Africa—A Decomposition Analysis," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(17), pages 1-13, August.
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    Cited by:

    1. Shivneta Singh & Ashika Naicker & Heleen Grobbelaar & Evonne Shanita Singh & Donna Spiegelman & Archana Shrestha, 2024. "Barriers and Facilitators of Implementing a Healthy Lifestyle Intervention at Workplaces in South Africa," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 21(4), pages 1-12, March.

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