Best practices in policy approaches to obesity prevention

J Health Care Poor Underserved. 2013;24(2 Suppl):168-92. doi: 10.1353/hpu.2013.0097.

Abstract

The rapidly rising rate of obesity has prompted a variety of policy responses at national, regional, and local levels. Yet, many have expressed concern that these policy responses have a limited evidence base, are overly paternalistic, and have the potential to increase rather than shrink obesity-related disparities. The purpose of this article is to evaluate obesity policies in terms of the adequacy of evidence for action and along two ethical dimensions: their potential effect on liberty and equity. To evaluate evidence, we engage in a systematic review of reviews and rate policies in terms of the sufficiency of evidence of effectiveness at combating obesity. We then apply a libertarian-paternalist framework to assess policies in terms of their impact on liberty and inverse-equity theory to assess impact on disparities. This article provides a framework to assist decision-makers in assessing best practices in obesity using a more multi-faceted set of dimensions.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Freedom
  • Health Policy*
  • Humans
  • Obesity / prevention & control*
  • Paternalism