Abstract

Author(s): Sanagustín Lles, A1,2; Becerra Darriba, H2; Alayeto Gastón, M2; Sánchez Lucas, N2; Ojeda Martínez, A2; Marques Lopes, I1; Pelegrín Valero, C1,2

Background: Morbid obesity (defined by BMI>40) usually causes severe health problems and can also affect the quality of life. Although several psychosocial aspects have been studied in patients with morbid obesity, further research is needed using a complete instrument that measures habits, thoughts and attitudes related to obesity, such as the Overeating Questionnaire (OQ).

Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the habits and attitudes of eating behaviour in a sample of thirty people with morbid obesity

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of thirty patients with morbid obesity and without any associated psychopathology that contraindicates bariatric surgery, using the Overeating Questionnaire (OQ).

Results: Patients scored higher in the “Overeating”, “Food craving”, “Expectations related to eating”, “Rationalizations”, “Undereating” and “Motivation to lose weight” OQ scales. In addition, patients’ score decreased in the “Health Habits” and “Positive Body Image” OQ scales, while increased in the “Social isolation” (relative lack of personal resources) and “Affective disturbance” scales.

Discussion and Conclusions: After the analysis of the results obtained, we conclude that the Overeating Questionnaire is a useful and reliable tool to assess the dysfunctional alterations in habits and attitudes related to eating behaviour in morbidly obese patients selected for bariatric surgery