Preferred language regarding overweight and obesity in general practice: a survey of predominantly rural Australian adults

Abstract

Discussions regarding overweight may be infrequent in Australian general practice. General practitioners (GPs) may find these discussions difficult to initiate if they are unsure of the language to use, or if patients would find it acceptable to be weighed. Overweight and obesity are more prevalent in rural areas than in metropolitan areas, and strategies to address the health risks associated with these conditions need to be tailored to rural communities. The aims of this study were to identify the language preferred by an Australian adult sample with a range of body sizes, to assess acceptability of routine weight measurement by GPs, and to assess potential influence of gender, body size and rurality on these preferences. A questionnaire was distributed through the authors’ informal networks using email and social media. Australian adults were eligible to participate. Respondents (n=771) were predominantly female, health professionals and resided in rural areas. The preferred language was weight neutral (‘weight’) or linked to health (‘your weight may be damaging your health’, ‘you are above your healthy weight range’). Preferred language appeared to be influenced by gender and body size but not rurality. Most respondents (76%) would find it acceptable to be weighed regularly by their GP.