Application of the health belief model to study weight management behavioral intentions among adults in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of overweight and obesity is rapidly increasing globally, particularly in developing countries such as Vietnam, leading to heightened risks of chronic diseases and significant economic burdens. Although various weight management strategies have been implemented, success rates remain low due to the lack of sustained adherence.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify factors influencing the behavioral intentions for weight management among adults in Ho Chi Minh City through the Health Belief Model (HBM) and assess their impact levels.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 387 adults recruited in Ho Chi Minh City from July to October 2023, using a stratified quota sampling technique based on age and educational attainment. Data were collected through an online questionnaire measuring the components of the HBM and the basic characteristics of the participants. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors influencing behavioral intentions for weight management.

RESULTS

Perceived threat of overweight (β = 0.92, OR = 2.51), perceived self-efficacy in exercise (β = 0.87, OR = 2.39), female sex (β = 1.14, OR = 3.13), educational attainment at secondary school (β = 1.32, OR = 3.73), high school (β = 1.56, OR = 4.73), college/university graduate or higher (β = 1.98, OR = 7.25), dieting experience (β = 0.61, OR = 1.84), and BMI (β = 0.26, OR = 1.29) were significantly positively associated with the intention to manage weight (p < 0.05). In contrast, marital status (being married) was the only factor negatively associated with weight management intentions (β = -1.12, OR = 0.33, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

The study identified the perception of overweight threat, self-efficacy in exercise, female sex, higher educational attainment, weight loss experience through dieting, and BMI as key factors driving weight management behavioral intentions, whereas marital status (being married) had a negative impact. These findings suggest that weight management interventions in Vietnam should focus on enhancing awareness of overweight risks, improving self-efficacy in exercise, and personalizing intervention strategies to optimize effectiveness.