Title : Food environments in the Pacific Region and efforts to improve them: A systematic scoping review
Abstract:
Introduction:
Obesity is a significant health problem of growing concern in Pacific Island countries. The top nine countries with the highest prevalence of obesity are from the Pacific region. Unhealthy diets are a key factor contributing to the development of obesity. Population diets are influenced by a range of factors, with the food environment as a major determinant. In this study, we conducted a systematic scoping review of the available literature to understand the i) characteristics of the physical food environment in the Pacific, ii) the broader economic, policy, and sociocultural surroundings that influence food choices in the region, and iii) interventions to improve food environments for Pacific communities.
Method:
Systematic searches of five academic databases, Google Scholar, and relevant international organizations’ websites. Studies were eligible if they were on any Pacific Island country or territory from 1993-2024. Studies were included if they described the characteristics of the physical food environment or the broader economic, policy and sociocultural surroundings that influence food choices or interventions to improve food environments. A narrative analysis was informed by an existing food environments framework.
Results:
From the 42 included studies, it was clear that food environments in the Pacific region are characterized by high availability and promotion of highly processed unhealthy foods. These foods were reported to be cheaper than healthier alternatives and have poor nutritional labelling. Food trade and investment, together with sociocultural and political factors, were found to contribute to unhealthy food choices among people in the Pacific region. Policy interventions have been implemented to address food environments in Pacific countries; however, the implementation of these policies has not been strong enough to achieve the desired outcomes of improved diets and reductions in the prevalence of obesity in the Pacific.
Conclusions:
Interventions focused on improving physical, economic, policy, and sociocultural influences on food choices should be prioritized in the Pacific region to mitigate barriers to healthy eating and reduce the unsustainable burden of obesity on individuals and society.
Audience Takeaway:
- This presentation will shed light on the cultural nuances influencing food choices and consumption patterns. Understanding cultural context is essential for designing effective interventions that are culturally sensitive and respectful.
- This presentation will help the audience grasp the significance of addressing food environment issues. This understanding can motivate action and advocacy for change.
- This presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the food environment in the Pacific region. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for identifying gaps and opportunities for intervention
