Prevention of Obesity in Norway - a literary analysis of what works and areas of improvement

Abstract

Background: The rising numbers of obesity worldwide and in Norway calls for action on both treatments and prevention. Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the causes and prevalence of obesity worldwide, and to furthermore explore current prevention strategies against obesity in Norway. Method: Analysis of literature found through search in online databases like PubMed, Medline, UpToDate, Google scholar and the national online libraries in Norway for action plans and policies on the prevention of obesity. Key words used during search were causes of obesity, prevention of obesity, obesity and diet, and obesity and exercise/physical activity. Results: The causes of obesity are complex and consist of both energy balance, genetics, socioeconomic status, factors that influence an individual’s choices and lifestyle habits. There are several policies in place in Norway for the prevention of obesity on both national, community and individual level. Conclusion: A lot is already been done to prevent and treat obesity, more knowledge on the effectiveness of strategies is needed however for further improvement to take place.