Using the Ecological Systems Theory (EST) as a model, researchers examined the existing literature with respect to neighborhood factors as outlined in EST, including factors related to the family and the school, which are embedded in larger social contexts of the community and society.
- Researchers found that progress has been made with respect to the body of evidence supporting the role of neighborhood factors on childhood obesity and obesity-related behaviors, although work remains to be done to enhance the understanding of neighborhood level factors.
- Implications of these studies will inform multilevel interventions which are urgently needed to tackle the growing epidemic of childhood obesity in the US.
Galvez, MP, Pearl, M, and Yen, IH. “Childhood obesity and the built environment.” Current Opinion in Pediatrics. (2010).
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