Obesity in adults: adapting a clinical practice guideline for South Africa

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a growing public health concern in South Africa, with high prevalence and significant healthcare costs. Until recently, South Africa lacked a national clinical practice guideline (CPG) for obesity in adulthood.Objective: To adapt a clinical practice guideline for the management of adult obesity in South Africa from the Canadian Adult Obesity Practice Guideline using the GRADE-ADAPTE methodology.Methods: The project followed a three-phase process: (1) planning, preparation, and permissions; (2) contextual adaptation and finalisation, including publication; and (3) dissemination and implementation. A multidisciplinary South African Obesity Guideline Committee (OC) oversaw the process, incorporating key stakeholders from clinical, academic, and patient communities.Results: Eighteen chapters were adapted from the Canadian Adult Obesity Clinical Practice Guideline. The adapted guideline reflects local research, needs, and resource availability while maintaining methodological integrity and international best practice.Conclusion: The first clinical practice guideline for treatment of adult obesity in South Africa was drafted. The use of GRADE-ADAPTE enabled a transparent, evidence-based adaptation suited to the South African healthcare context. Dissemination and engagement with national policy and health services are ongoing.