Land use mix in the neighbourhood and childhood obesity

Abstract

Land use mix (LUM) in the neighbourhood is an important aspect for promoting healthier lifestyles and consequently reducing the risk for childhood obesity. However, findings of the association between LUM and childhood obesity remain controversial. A literature search was conducted on Cochrane Library, PubMed and Web of Science for articles published before 1 January 2019. In total, 25 cross-sectional and two longitudinal studies were identified. Among them, Geographic Information Systems were used to measure LUM in 15 studies, and perceived LUM was measured in 12 studies. Generally, most studies revealed an association between a higher LUM and higher PA levels and lower obesity rates, although some studies also reported null or negative associations. The various exposure and outcome assessment have limited the synthesis to obtain pooled estimates. The evidence remains scare on the association between LUM and children's weight status, and more longitudinal studies are needed to examine the independent pathways and causality between LUM and weight-related behaviours/outcomes.

Keywords: built environment; child; land use mix; obesity.