Population Approach to Managing Obesity

Question 1

What is the definition of obesity?

Answer 1

Having a high amount of body fat in relation to body mass, BMI >30kg/m2

Question 2

Where is obesity most common?

Answer 2

1) Older people
2) Lower SE status groups
3) People who have disabilities

Question 3

What are the main issues of childhood obesity?

Answer 3

1) Stigmatisation
2) Bullying
3) Low self esteem
4) School absence
5) High Cholesterol and BP
6) Bone/Joint problems
7) Increased chance of adulthood obesity

Question 4

What are the main issues of adulthood obesity?

Answer 4

1) Discrimination and Stigma
2) Less likely to be employed
3) Risk of hospitalisation
4) Reduced life expectancy
5) Depression and Psychiatric problems

Question 5

What are the 7 key domains for energy balance?

Answer 5

1. Food production.
2. Food consumption.
3. Individual activity.
4. Societal influences.
5. Individual biology.
6. Individual psychology.
7. Activity environment.

Question 6

What are individual level interventions for managing obesity?

Answer 6

1. Behaviour change: stimulus control, goal setting, slow rate of eating, relapse prevention, social support, hypnotherapy.
2. Community based programmes can provide on going advice and support.

Question 7

What are population wide level interventions to help manage obesity?

Answer 7

1. Food supply: reduce energy dense ingredients and improve access to healthy foods.
2. Media campaigns e.g. change4life, 5-a-day.
3. Environment: improve cycle lanes etc.
4. Sugar tax and subsidise healthy eating.
5. Restrict the sale of certain foods and drinks in schools.

Question 8

What are 4 interventions Doctor’s can provide to help manage obesity?

Answer 8

1) Prescribe exercise
2) Recommend surgery
3) Educate patients (every contact count)
4) Signpost to weight management programmes