Understanding the Dynamics Driving Obesity in Socioeconomically Deprived Urban Neighborhoods: An Expert-Based Systems Map

By:

Fleur ter Ellen, Joost Oude Groeniger, Karien Stronks, Luc L. Hagenaars, Carlijn B.M. Kamphuis, Joreintje D. Mackenbach et al.

Date:

2025

Resource type:

Blogs/news/opinion

Link:

View Review

Obesity

Socioeconomic disparities

Urban neighborhoods

System dynamics

Public health policy

This study examines the systemic causes of rising obesity in socioeconomically deprived urban neighborhoods in the Netherlands over the past 30 years. Using Group Model Building (GMB) and Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs), the study identifies how adverse socioeconomic conditions, unhealthy food environments, and reduced physical activity create reinforcing feedback loops that perpetuate obesity. The research emphasizes the need for integrated, community-driven policies to disrupt these dynamics and improve public health outcomes.

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