THE MEANING OF OBESITY: THE PERCEPTION OF OBESE PATIENTS

Abstract

Objective: to understand the significance of obesity for the obese patient and the difficulties faced in everyday life. Method: A qualitative study, developed with 19 patients enrolled in Study Project for Reducing Weight (PEPE) in Salvador/BA/Northeast Brazil. There were recorded semi-structured interviews, conducted from the question << What does mean obesity in your life? >>. To interpret the findings, we used the technique of content analysis in thematic modality. The project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee, Protocol n. 193/2011. Results: there were built three thematic categories: 1. Perceptions and feelings about having obesity; 2. Limitation due to excessive weight; 3. Obesity as a cause of health problem. Conclusion: the meaning of obesity to the patient was related to several negative factors, such as dissatisfaction with the body image and the presence of problems affecting the individual under physical and psychological scope.