Prevention of Obesity

This Neighbourhood Study aims to research the profile of Hillingdon Borough in relation to the prevention of obesity. An insight into the prevalence of obesity as well as the causes and its effects shall be evaluated. Public health strategies on the prevention of obesity and its effects in relation to Government strategies shall be addressed. A snapshot about the role of the nurse as an educator in relation to this public health issue as well as strategies formulated by Hillingdon PCT to prevent obesity and how it focuses on other diseases associated with obesity shall be discussed. The following section gives a definition of obesity, health, health education and health prevention.

The World Health Organization (WHO) (2010) defines obesity and being overweight as an abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health. Body mass index (BMI) as Arterburn et al (2008) put forward is a measure of body fat based on height and weight and further suggest that any individual with a BMI of more than 30 is considered as obese. WHO (1986) defines health as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Tannahill et al (1999) propound that health education could be viewed as communication activity aimed at enhancing positive health and preventing ill health in individuals and groups by influencing their beliefs, attitudes, and behaviour of persons with power and of the community. Butler et al (2008) defines health prevention as the measures for early detection of departure from good health. Whereas Heath (2002) concur that the role and function of the nurse emphasise on health promotion and illness prevention, the Department of Health (2003) emphasises on th...

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...nitiatives relating to obesity, the exploration of Public health and government strategic concepts of valuing equality and diversity across population receiving health care have be examined. Child obesity is one of the greatest challenges facing Hillingdon PCT. This calls for a multi-agency collaboration between the NHS, local authorities, schools, workplaces, community and commercial enterprises in planning, delivering and maintaining a healthier borough and nation. Focus needs to be emphasised on prevention, as opposed to cure.

Nurses need to play a more active role on educating the nation on the dangers of obesity and its associated illnesses. Whether the motivation is on improving health or increasing physical activity; health education directed towards the young can help build an obese free borough and country as the young are the future of tomorrow.