BETTER4U Infographic – The Role of Our Environment on Obesity
Abstract
Obesity is a complex disease influenced by both individual biological factors (e.g. genes and metabolism) and external influences (environment and society). Our surroundings play an important role in shaping our behaviour. This infographic shows how an obesogenic environment – which refers to a setting that encourages unhealthy eating patterns and discourages physical activity – contributes to higher rates of weight gain and obesity. Many people – especially in modern western countries – live in such environments, often without even realising it. But not everyone is affected in the same way. Our individual biology, including our genes, also influences how likely we are to gain weight. That’s why reshaping our environments to support healthier choices benefits everyone, especially those more biologically vulnerable.
Full text
Many factors contribute to obesity - including our genes, lifestyles, and environment. Obesogenic environments interact with our biology to shape eating behaviours, stress, sleep, and physical activity - all of which can contribute to obesity, often without us realising it. Creating healthier environments benefits everyone — especially those who are more susceptible to developing obesity. The Role of Our Environment on Obesity How much do our environments shape our ability to live healthier lives? What forms an obesogenic environment? Obesogenic environments are shaped by many factors. In summary: Obesity is a complex disease involving genetic, physiological, environmental, and social factors. Individual biological factors, including genes, interact with external influences to contribute to obesity. Obesogenic environments are key drivers of rising obesity rates. Addressing obesity requires a combination of systemic changes and personal interventions. BETTER4U: - Supports our understanding of obesity's root causes and how they interact. Empowers individuals with personalised information. Moves beyond the current "one-size-fits-all" approach to obesity. Helps adopt personalised lifestyle changes tailored to individual needs. Food accessibility & marketing High energy-dense foods, fast foods, and sugary drinks are widely available and aggressively marketed. Media and entertainment Online trends, peer pressure and excessive screen time can promote unhealthy eating choices and inactive lifestyles. Design of urban and rural areas Limited or unsafe spaces for physical activities discourage movement and exercise like walking or cycling. Environmental pollution Poor air quality, light, noise and other factors can disrupt sleep, elevate stress levels, and affect hormone and metabolic function. Chronic diseases Obesity increases the risk of other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, digestive disorders, chronic respiratory diseases, and certain cancers. Technology The rise of sedentary jobs, digital devices, and tech-driven environments has reduced opportunities and the requirement for daily physical activity. Rising obesity rates Since 1990, adult obesity has doubled and adolescent obesity has quadrupled globally. In 2022, it was estimated that nearly 1 billion people worldwide were living with obesity. Making nutritious food choices easier Encouraging a variety of nourishing foods in communities and schools. Supporting marketing and availability of affordable, accessible options that people enjoy and can include as part of balanced diets. Mental health effects People living with obesity may face stigma and discrimination, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation - making it harder to engage in health-promoting behaviours. Policy interventions Improving investments in safe infrastructure, access to obesity care and treatment, or regulations on marketing of energy-dense food products, especially targeted at children. Purposeful environmental planning Having parks, safe walking and cycling paths, and other recreational areas that encourage movement and outdoor activities. Accessible healthcare Comprehensive care for obesity includes prevention, support, and access to medical treatment, tailored to the individual’s needs. Community programmes Creating accessible, inclusive programmes that support physical health, mental wellbeing, social connection, and equitable access to care for all. Socioeconomic barriers Structural inequities limit access to nutritious foods, safe spaces, healthcare, and obesity treatment - contributing to unequal obesity rates and health outcomes. FAST FOOD BEEP! BEEP! Economic impact People living with obesity face 30% higher health treatment costs than those without, in addition to indirect costs such as those associated with premature death or obesity-related disability. In the EU, 8% of health costs were attributed to obesity. € ! ! ! ! How does obesity affect our health and society? Obesity impacts personal lives and our society as a whole. €1 VEGGIES! How can society shape healthier environments? Solutions need to support healthier lifestyle choices and access to care for everyone. ! ! ! ! + Global trade Energy-dense foods, such as sugary beverages and ultra-processed snacks, are spreading globally, increasingly replacing traditional diets that are often nutrient-dense and have fewer calories. ! ! ! ! (WHO, 2022)