Perspectives of practitioners providing weight management support for young adults with obesity in an urban setting in Sri Lanka: a qualitative study.

OBJECTIVES: This study explored perspectives of practitioners providing weight management support for urban-dwelling young adults (18-35 years) with obesity in Sri Lanka, addressing an important evidence gap in understanding obesity management from a provider perspective. STUDY DESIGN: This descriptive qualitative study employed face-to-face semi-structured interviews, and the data were analysed using a framework approach within thematic analysis. STUDY SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Eight purposively selected practitioners involved in weight management in the Colombo District, Sri Lanka, were interviewed. Participants represented key domains of comprehensive obesity management, including dietary, physical activity, behaviour and medical management. Recruitment continued until thematic saturation was achieved. RESULTS: Two key themes emerged from the data: (1) Barriers to effective weight management and (2) Strategies to improve weight management. Within the first theme, five subthemes emerged, including limited knowledge and confidence among practitioners, provider attitudes towards clients, resource and service limitations, client motivation and adherence challenges and cultural and religious influences and myths. The second theme comprised four subthemes: early detection with a proper referral system, comprehensive and individualised care approach, continuous follow-up and self-monitoring and supportive social environment. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that obesity management is hindered by fragmented care, with provider, client and system-level factors constraining practitioners' weight management efforts and limiting opportunities for improved care. These findings suggest the potential value of strengthening interdisciplinary referral pathways and targeted training to support more coordinated care.