Research from Deakin University, World Health Organization reveals new findings on obesity
February 9th, 2009
2009 FEB 9 -- "A comprehensive policy approach is needed to control the growing obesity epidemic. This paper proposes the Obesity Policy Action (OPA) framework, modified from the World Health Organization framework for the implementation of the Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health, to provide specific guidance for governments to systematically identify areas for obesity policy action," scientists in Melbourne, Australia report.
"The proposed framework incorporates three different public health approaches to addressing obesity: (i) 'upstream' policies influence either the broad social and economic conditions of society (e.g. taxation, education, social security) or the food and physical activity environments to make healthy eating and physical activity choices easier; (ii) 'midstream' policies are aimed at directly influencing population behaviours; and (iii) 'downstream' policies support health services and clinical interventions. A set of grids for analysing potential policies to support obesity prevention and management is presented. The general pattern that emerges from populating the analysis grids as they relate to the Australian context is that all sectors and levels of government, non-governmental organizations and private businesses have multiple opportunities to contribute to reducing obesity," wrote G. Sacks and colleagues, Deakin University, World Health Organization.
The researchers concluded: "The proposed framework and analysis grids provide a comprehensive approach to mapping the policy environment related to obesity, and a tool for identifying policy gaps, barriers and opportunities."
Sacks and colleagues published their study in Obesity Reviews (Obesity Policy Action framework and analysis grids for a comprehensive policy approach to reducing obesity. Obesity Reviews, 2009;10(1):76-86).
For additional information, contact G. Sacks, Deakin University, WHO Collaborating Center Obes Prevention, School Exercise & Nutrition Science, 221 Burwood Highway, Melbourne, Vic 3125, Australia.
The publisher's contact information for the journal Obesity Reviews is: Blackwell Publishing, 9600 Garsington Rd., Oxford OX4 2DQ, Oxon, England.
Keywords: Australia, Melbourne, Bariatrics, Obesity, Public Health, Deakin University, World Health Organization.
This article was prepared by Obesity & Diabetes Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Obesity & Diabetes Week via NewsRx.com.
