Healthcare access and consultation behaviors among overweight and obese adults in Kénitra, Morocco: a cross-sectional study on barriers

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Overweight and obesity are major public health challenges, yet access to appropriate healthcare and effective management remains limited. This study aimed to assess healthcare access, consultation behaviors, and barriers among overweight and obese adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 134 adults in Kénitra, Morocco. Sociodemographic information, body mass index (BMI), and healthcare access variables were collected using structured questionnaires and clinical assessments. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize consultation behaviors, barriers, types of healthcare providers consulted, and follow-up practices. RESULTS: Among participants, 47.0% were classified as obese, 25.4% as overweight, and 27.6% had normal BMI. Only 19.6% reported consulting specifically for weight-related issues, while 78.4% did not seek care. The main barriers were perception of no need (34.6%), financial constraints (25.6%), and lack of physicians (21.8%). Consultations primarily took place in the private sector (84.2%). Dietitians (40.4%) and specialist physicians (38.6%) were the most frequently consulted professionals, whereas general practitioners accounted for only 10.9%. Follow-up and referral rates were low, with just 3.1% of participants referred to specialists or dietitians and 91.8% receiving no regular monitoring. CONCLUSIONS: Access to healthcare for overweight and obese adults is constrained by economic, social, and systemic factors. The low rates of consultation, referral, and follow-up underscore the need for structured care pathways, enhanced provider awareness, and multidisciplinary management strategies in Morocco.