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Open Access 01-12-2019 | Obesity | Research article

Elucidating knowledge and beliefs about obesity and eating disorders among key stakeholders: paving the way for an integrated approach to health promotion

Authors: Bianca Bullivant, Aaron R. Denham, Clare Stephens, Rebecca E. Olson, Deborah Mitchison, Timothy Gill, Sarah Maguire, Janet D. Latner, Phillipa Hay, Bryan Rodgers, Richard J. Stevenson, Stephen Touyz, Jonathan M. Mond

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2019

Abstract

Background

Understanding the knowledge and beliefs of key stakeholders is crucial in developing effective public health interventions. Knowledge and beliefs about obesity and eating disorders (EDs) have rarely been considered, despite increasing awareness of the need for integrated health promotion programs. We investigated key aspects of knowledge and beliefs about obesity and EDs among key stakeholders in Australia.

Methods

Using a semi-structured question guide, eight focus groups and seven individual interviews were conducted with 62 participants including health professionals, personal trainers, teachers and consumer group representatives. An inductive thematic approach was used for data analysis.

Results

The findings suggest that, relative to obesity, EDs are poorly understood among teachers, personal trainers, and certain health professionals. Areas of commonality and distinction between the two conditions were identified. Integrated health promotion efforts that focus on shared risk (e.g., low self-esteem, body dissatisfaction) and protective (e.g., healthy eating, regular exercise) factors were supported. Suggested target groups for such efforts included young children, adolescents and parents.

Conclusions

The findings indicate areas where the EDs and obesity fields have common ground and can work together in developing integrated health promotion programs.

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Title: Elucidating knowledge and beliefs about obesity and eating disorders among key stakeholders: paving the way for an integrated approach to health promotion
Authors: Bianca Bullivant
Aaron R. Denham
Clare Stephens
Rebecca E. Olson
Deborah Mitchison
Timothy Gill
Sarah Maguire
Janet D. Latner
Phillipa Hay
Bryan Rodgers
Richard J. Stevenson
Stephen Touyz
Jonathan M. Mond
Publication date: 01-12-2019
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Obesity
Public Health
Obesity
Eating Disorder
Eating Disorder
Published in: BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2019
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-019-7971-y

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Elucidating knowledge and beliefs about obesity and eating disorders among key stakeholders: paving the way for an integrated approach to health promotion

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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