Obesity Management Strategies For The Teenagers Assignment Sample

Introduction

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Background of the research

The present-day society is faced with the growing concern of obesity, which has become a notable public health problem, especially among adolescents (Tiwari & Balasundaram, 2023). The rising prevalence of obesity among adolescents is a matter of significant apprehension, as it not only raises immediate concerns but also presents substantial potential hazards for the long-term health and welfare of both individuals and societies. The multifaceted problem at hand is perpetuated by a complex interplay of circumstances, including the widespread adoption of unhealthy habits, the heightened consumption of processed foods, and the omnipresence of digital technology (Pagliai et al., 2020). Therefore, it is imperative to possess a holistic comprehension of the physiological, psychological, and socio-environmental factors that impact food habits, levels of physical activity, and general welfare in order to tackle the issue of obesity among adolescents effectively (Lee et al., 2019).

Moreover, this study highlights the importance of adopting a comprehensive strategy to manage obesity, acknowledging the complex interaction between personal decisions, societal pressures, and environmental elements. Therefore, it is imperative to examine diverse approaches that incorporate educational, behavioural, and environmental elements in order to promote durable and significant resolutions. This study aims to provide insights into various strategies and their potential implications in order to guide policy development, inform healthcare practices, and promote community engagement. The ultimate goal is to address the increasing challenge of obesity among teenagers.

Throughout the period of adolescence, the process of acquiring independence and embracing various lifestyle behaviours frequently endures into adulthood, establishing the groundwork for enduring health consequences (Allen & Waterman, 2019). In keeping with international patterns, the available data specific to Australia highlights a disconcerting situation, wherein a measly 4% of adolescents are seen to comply with the suggested national criteria pertaining to the consumption of fruits and vegetables.

Furthermore, these individuals exhibit a notable inclination towards consuming energy-dense, nutrient-poor dietary products, such as sugar-sweetened beverages and heavily processed snack items. Furthermore, it is worth noting that a mere fraction of 2% of adolescents in Australia are able to fulfil the criteria set by the national standards for physical activity, which is further compounded by the prevalence of excessive sedentary behaviours (Scully et al., 2022). The co-occurrence of inadequate food patterns and insufficient physical activity during adolescence presents a significant obstacle, given the well-established difficulty of modifying these behaviours in adulthood. Consequently, this situation amplifies the vulnerability to weight increase and the development of comorbidities associated with obesity.

According to statistical data from the year 2017-2018, it was seen that a quarter of children and adolescents in Australia, aged between 5 and 17 years, had the challenge of being overweight or obese (Abs.gov.au, 2018). Alarming trends were observed as the percentage of individuals with excess weight rose significantly from 16-17 years of age, reaching 31%. Furthermore, a substantial 46% of individuals aged 18-24 were found to enter adulthood with excessive weight (Abs.gov.au, 2018). It is important to highlight that teenagers who experience obesity have a significantly increased probability, five times greater, of maintaining this weight status throughout their adult years.

Literature review

Numerous longitudinal studies have consistently emphasised that an elevated body mass index (BMI) during adolescence is an autonomous determinant for the early onset of myocardial infarction and type 2 diabetes in adulthood, irrespective of later BMI fluctuations. The influence of obesity on overall well-being is notably significant during the period of adolescence in comparison to other phases of childhood development. As a result, the socioeconomic implications of obesity during this crucial developmental period impose considerable pressure on healthcare systems and global economies.

Between the years 2017 and 2018, a significant proportion of children and adolescents in Australia, specifically 25%, were identified as being overweight or obese. Within this group, 8.2% were classed as obese. Significantly, there was an observed rise in the occurrence of overweight and obesity among individuals aged 5-17, with rates increasing from 20% in 1995 to 25% in the period of 2007-08, followed by a subsequent stabilisation in the subsequent years.

Through a comparative analysis of data spanning from 1995 to 2017-18, it was discerned that persons falling between the age brackets of 5-14 and 15-24, encompassing children, adolescents, and young adults, exhibited a heightened susceptibility to the condition of being overweight or obese (Hashan et al., 2020). This observation underscores a disconcerting pattern of escalating weight-related concerns among these specific cohorts.

Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the eldest age group, specifically individuals aged 15-24, had a greater incidence of overweight and obesity throughout the period of 2017-18 in comparison to the data documented in 2007-08 (Hashan et al., 2020). This observation implies a persistent upward trend in weight-related issues within this particular population. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that there was no substantial rise in the occurrence of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents aged 5-14 between the years 2017-18 and 2007-08. This suggests that there has been a stabilisation in the rate of overweight and obesity in this age group in recent times.

On contrary, the recently launched “Health Online for Teens (HOT)” programme is a groundbreaking online effort in Australia created specifically to reduce adolescent obesity while providing professional advice and encouraging peer and family support. HOT recognises the importance of active participation in lifestyle decisions at a crucial and flexible phase of transition (Moores et al., 2019). It is based on well-established theories of behaviour change and self-determination. The program supports the improvement of adolescents and their parents' lifestyles through the implementation of goal-setting mechanisms and the provision of both peer and expert support (Moores et al., 2019). It includes crucial components such as avoiding peer pressure, adopting nourishing eating habits, participating in regular physical activity, and fostering emotional well-being.

Significance of the research

The analysis of approaches to address obesity in the setting of adolescents is of great importance, both for individuals and society as a whole. Primarily, the findings of this study have far-reaching implications for the immediate physical and psychological welfare of adolescents. The objective of this study is to promote healthy living habits among adolescents by implementing and comprehending effective interventions for managing obesity. This is a critical developmental stage where the purpose is to lower the likelihood of chronic diseases and ultimately improve the overall quality of life for this population (Physiopedia, 2021). Moreover, given that adolescence is a pivotal stage for the formation of enduring behavioural patterns, the effective execution of these approaches holds promise for exerting a favourable impact on subsequent health results, thereby mitigating the intergenerational propagation of obesity and its associated comorbidities.

The research holds social importance as it has the ability to provide valuable insights for evidence-based policy formulation and the creation of public health programmes (Chhetri & Zacarias, 2021). Through a comprehensive examination of the complex characteristics of obesity and its repercussions on the population of adolescents, this study aims to offer significant perspectives for policymakers, healthcare practitioners, educators, and community leaders. These observations can be utilised as a framework for developing and executing specific interventions, such as programmes implemented inside educational institutions, community-driven initiatives, and legislative modifications. The primary objective of these interventions is to cultivate healthier surroundings and cultivate a climate of overall well-being among adolescents. Moreover, this study makes a valuable contribution to the field by examining the economic implications of obesity and proposing efficient prevention and management approaches. It helps in the efficient allocation of healthcare resources and the mitigation of financial burdens associated with obesity-related diseases (Mylona et al., 2020).

The research holds significance not only within the context of its specific focus but also within the broader global discourse on public health, given the increasing prevalence of obesity among teenagers on a global scale. This research has the potential to serve as a guiding framework for other nations facing comparable difficulties, as it emphasises effective techniques and exemplary approaches. Therefore, it could promote international cooperation in addressing the worldwide obesity crisis. The research findings have the potential to significantly influence the health and well-being of teenagers, contributing to the development of a healthier and more sustainable future for future generations.

Research rationale

The motivation for undertaking this study stems from the imperative to tackle the urgent problem of adolescent obesity, which presents a substantial risk to the physical and mental health of individuals, as well as the welfare of communities and society as a whole. In light of the escalating incidence of obesity among adolescents and the considerable difficulties are included in its treatment. Furthermore, there exists a pressing want for a thorough comprehension of efficacious approaches specifically designed to address the distinctive requirements and complexities of this particular population.

During the period of adolescence, which is a critical stage marked by the emergence of independent lifestyle behaviours, it is imperative to implement interventions that promote the adoption of healthy habits (van Sluijs et al., 2021). These treatments play a significant role in mitigating the long-term progression of obesity and its associated comorbidities. The complex relationship between dietary patterns, physical activity levels, and socio-environmental influences during this critical developmental period highlights the significance of investigating comprehensive and interconnected strategies for addressing obesity (Smith et al., 2020). This approach acknowledges the intricate network of factors that contribute to the development and growth of obesity.

Aim and objectives

Aim

The aim of this research is to comprehensively investigate and evaluate effective obesity management strategies tailored to the unique needs of the adolescent population

Objectives

• To assess the prevalence and trends of adolescent obesity in Australia, examining the key factors contributing to the persistence of this issue among teenagers
• To critically analyze the effectiveness of existing nutritional education programs in schools and communities, with a focus on their impact on promoting healthy die tary behaviours and reducing the consumption of energy-dense
• To evaluate the role of physical activity promotion initiatives in schools and communities
• To investigate the impact of policy interventions, including school-based regulations and community initiatives,

Ethical consideration

When doing primary research with surveys on the delicate subject of adolescent obesity, ethical considerations are of the utmost importance. Informed consent, confidentiality, and voluntary involvement need to all be strictly adhered to. It is especially important to protect the wellbeing of the young people, who are participating in the survey, therefore make sure the poll's content is age-appropriate and non-threatening. protecting ethical norms requires protecting the objectivity and integrity of researchers as well as giving beneficence and non-maleficence first priority. The protection of the participant's rights and privacy throughout the research process also requires guaranteeing the security and confidentiality of the data acquired and receiving essential ethical approvals from pertinent committees (Manti & Licari, 2018).

Research design

The study's quantitative component will be guided by the positivist approach, which emphasises the accurate assessment of observable events connected to adolescent obesity. The research aims to find empirical evidence and observable trends in the data using standardised measurements and statistical analyses, adding to our understanding of the prevalence of obesity and its associated factors in the target population. The creation of evidence-based obesity management plans and interventions is facilitated by this method's ability to identify quantitative trends and correlations (Wharton et al., 2020).

In addition, the interpretivism viewpoint will guide the qualitative portion of the study, allowing for a deeper examination of adolescents' individual experiences, attitudes, and views of obesity and its treatment (Øen et al., 2018).

Using a cross-sectional survey design, the quantitative component of the study will collect data on the prevalence of obesity, dietary patterns, and physical activity levels among the 101 participants. This survey will employ standardised aspects, such as validated questionnaires investigating dietary practises, levels of physical activity, and body image perceptions, to ensure the accuracy and comparability of the data. Excel will be utilised for the creation of charts and diagrams, which will then be analysed.

The qualitative component will include an in-depth understanding of secondary data. The lived experiences, beliefs, and attitudes of teenagers about obesity and its management will be revealed through this qualitative technique. The qualitative phase will enable a nuanced study of the psychosocial and environmental factors impacting dietary decisions, physical activity, and participation in obesity control programmes through open-ended asking and probing (Safarian et al., 2019). In order to gain a deeper knowledge of the intricacies underlying adolescent obesity, relevant themes and patterns within the qualitative data will be identified using thematic analysis.

Sample and Recruitment

The choice of the random sample approach in this primary research project is essential for assuring objective and representative data collection from the adolescent population on obesity. In order to reduce the possibility of systematic sample bias, random sampling, a core technique in survey research, includes the selection of participants in a fully random and unpredictable manner. This strategy increases the generalizability and validity of the results by giving every member of the target population an equal chance to be selected as a member of the research sample (Mcleod, 2019).

In order to gain a thorough understanding of the prevalence, behaviours, and attitudes towards obesity management among Australian teenagers, the research aims to include 101 participants, chosen at random from a variety of sociodemographic backgrounds, educational institutions, and geographic locations across the nation. This method includes a sample that fairly represents the diverse perspectives and experiences of teenagers with regard to obesity. By using an adequate sample size, the study seeks to develop a complete and nuanced picture of the present trends, issues, and potential remedies connected to adolescent obesity (Mcleod, 2019). It is possible to conduct a more extensive and in-depth analysis of the complex dynamics involved in controlling adolescent obesity in the Australian context thanks to the use of the random sampling technique and sizable sample size, which enhances the validity and reliability of the study's findings.

Data Collection

In order to collect quantitative information on dietary practises, levels of physical activity, and opinions of obesity management, a standardised survey questionnaire will be given to a diverse sample of 101 Australian teenagers who were chosen using a random sampling technique and Google Form will be used to collect data. Prioritising the earlier mentioned ethical principles, the primary data collection will guarantee informed permission, confidentiality, and voluntary participation throughout the research process (Øen et al., 2018).

In order to acquire pertinent data on adolescent obesity, including prevalence rates, contributing variables, and successful intervention options, the secondary data collection will entail a comprehensive evaluation of the available literature, academic publications, governmental papers, and reliable online databases. To guarantee thorough coverage of the subject, the search will include a variety of sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, policy documents, and meta-analyses. The gathered secondary data will be carefully examined and synthesised in order to offer insightful conclusions and contextual background knowledge that will support the findings from the primary data (Øen et al., 2018). To guarantee the integrity and reliability of the secondary data gathered, all sources will be meticulously documented and the right reference conventions will be followed.

Data Analysis

In order to obtain thorough insights from the gathered data, the data analysis for this study on teenage obesity management would include both quantitative and qualitative views. The study will involve creating charts and graphs to clearly illustrate the findings using MS Excel as the primary tool for data visualisation.

In order to analyse the prevalence of obesity, food habits, physical activity levels, and other pertinent aspects among the participants from a quantitative perspective, the data analysis will make use of numerous statistical measures within MS Excel. We'll use descriptive statistics to give a thorough analysis of the data set, including means, frequencies, and standard deviations. To further aid in comprehending the connections between obesity and numerous contributing factors, inferential statistical techniques may also be utilised to locate significant correlations or links between distinct variables (Mcleod, 2019).

The data analysis tools in MS Excel will make it possible to apply these statistical methods to the data that have been gathered, assisting in the discovery of trends and patterns in the quantitative data set. The secondary data will be meticulously selected and integrated into MS Word after being acquired from reliable academic sources, research journals, and pertinent government papers. The procedure will comprise categorising the secondary data systematically according to thematic importance and conformity with the study goals. The capabilities of MS Excel's spreadsheet program will make it possible to organise and save essential primary data, making it simple to access and retrieve it for use in the qualitative analysis stage.

Rigour and quality

The conclusions and interpretations of this study on the management of adolescent obesity may be affected by a number of limitations. The generalizability of the results to the larger Australian adolescent population may be constrained by the dependence on a particular sample, even one that was chosen at random. Additionally, the accuracy and completeness of the information gathered may be impacted by potential biases resulting from self-reported data in surveys.

Resource limitations, such as those related to time and money have been also limiting the breadth and depth of data gathering and analysis, potentially affecting how thorough the research is. Furthermore, outside variables that may introduce confounding variables and affect the participants' eating habits and physical activity patterns include cultural influences and seasonal fluctuations. Last but not least, the short-term nature of the study may make it difficult to provide a thorough evaluation of the Health Online for Teens (HOT) program's durability and effectiveness over the long run, limiting our understanding of its effects.

References

• Abs.gov.au. (2018, December 12). Overweight and obesity, 2017-18 financial year | Australian Bureau of Statistics. Www.abs.gov.au. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/overweight-and-obesity/latest-release#:~:text=Almost%20one%20quarter%20(24.9%25)
• Allen, B., & Waterman, H. (2019, March 28). Stages of adolescence. HealthyChildren.org; American Academy of Pediatrics. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/teen/Pages/Stages-of-Adolescence.aspx
• Chhetri, D., & Zacarias, F. (2021). Advocacy for Evidence-Based Policy-Making in Public Health: Experiences and the Way Forward. Journal of Health Management, 23(1), 85–94. https://doi.org/10.1177/0972063421994948
• Hashan, M. R., Rabbi, M. F., Haider, S. S., & Das Gupta, R. (2020). Prevalence and associated factors of underweight, overweight and obesity among women of reproductive age group in the Maldives: Evidence from a nationally representative study. PLOS ONE, 15(10), e0241621. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0241621
• Lee, A., Cardel, M., & Donahoo, W. T. (2019). Environmental Factors Influencing Obesity. NIH.gov; MDText.com, Inc. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK278977/
• Manti, S., & Licari, A. (2018). How to obtain informed consent for research. Breathe, 14(2), 145–152. https://doi.org/10.1183/20734735.001918
• Mcleod, S. (2019). Sampling Methods | Simply Psychology. Simplypsychology.org. https://www.simplypsychology.org/sampling.html
• Moores, C. J., Maeder, A., Miller, J., Prichard, I., Lewis, L. K., Bell, L. K., Macoustra, A., & Miller, M. D. (2019). A Digital Intervention for Australian Adolescents Above a Healthy Weight (Health Online for Teens): Protocol for an Implementation and User Experience Study. JMIR Research Protocols, 8(10), e13340. https://doi.org/10.2196/13340
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• Øen, G., Kvilhaugsvik, B., Eldal, K., & Halding, A.-G. (2018). Adolescents' perspectives on everyday life with obesity: a qualitative study. International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being, 13(1), 1479581. https://doi.org/10.1080/17482631.2018.1479581
• Pagliai, G., Dinu, M., Madarena, M. P., Bonaccio, M., Iacoviello, L., & Sofi, F. (2020). Consumption of ultra-processed foods and health status: a systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Nutrition, 125(3), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0007114520002688
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