An Exploratory Study on the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Weight Gain Products in Aden, Yemen

Wafa F Badulla, Ebtesam Salem Omer Bamahmood, Mohamed Izham Mohamed Ibrahim

Abstract

Background: Weight-gaining (WG) products, including herbal and medicinal supplements, are widely available without prescription. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and side effects of WG products among the population of Aden, Yemen. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 186 participants was conducted over four months between May and August 2022. A self-developed survey assessed the knowledge, attitude, practice (KAP), and side effects of WG products. Results: The results showed that 69.9% of the participants were female, with the majority having an underweight or normal body mass index. Notably, 60.2% of the participants lacked knowledge about pharmaceutical WG products, while 68.8% claimed to be familiar with herbal WG products. Despite good knowledge and attitude toward weight gain, participants' practice levels were poor, with 81.2% experiencing side effects, primarily heart-related symptoms, stomach upset, and rapid weight loss.
Conclusion: This study highlights the need for education and awareness regarding the safe use of WG products, particularly among the population in Aden, Yemen. These findings emphasize the importance of improving knowledge and practice levels to mitigate the risks associated with WG products.

 

Keywords: attitude, knowledge, practice, side-effects, and weight-gaining products.

 

https://doi.org/10.55463/issn.1674-2974.52.2.9


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