Public perceptions of obesity and bariatric surgery in Singapore: a pilot study.

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is a real and dangerous problem with rising incidence. This study aimed to examine public perceptions of obesity as a disease, as well as the community's impression of the various modalities in the management of obesity, particularly bariatric surgery, in Singapore.
METHODS: Volunteers from the public were approached in 2010 to complete a questionnaire that collected both their demographic data and perceptions on obesity, management of obesity and bariatric surgery. The perceptions of the respondents were analysed based on various demographic factors.
RESULTS: The incidence of obesity was 16.8%. Consistent with previous studies in developed countries, the highest mean body mass index was noted in the age range of 41-50 years. 95.6% of the population surveyed were aware that obesity was related to significant medical conditions. 60% of the population surveyed had attempted weight loss in the past, with 41.7% expressing lack of success, and 58.4% expressed that they had not heard of surgery as a modality.
CONCLUSION: This study shows that the majority of the population understands the significance of obesity as a medical problem and would take steps to combat it. However, there is suboptimal knowledge of the various modalities of managing obesity as a disease, especially with regard to surgical options. More education on the modalities available and access to them would help in the combat of this obesity epidemic.