Childhood Obesity Prevention in Africa: A Systematic Review of Intervention Effectiveness and Implementation

Abstract

Childhood obesity is of increasing concern in many parts of Africa. We conducted a systematic search and review of published literature on behavioural childhood obesity prevention interventions. A literature search identified peer-reviewed literature from seven databases, and unindexed African journals, including experimental studies targeting children age 2–18 years in African countries, published in any language since 1990. All experimental designs were eligible; outcomes of interest were both behavioural (physical activity, dietary behaviours) and anthropometric (weight, body mass index, body composition). We also searched for process evaluations or other implementation observations. Methodological quality was assessed; evidence was synthesised narratively as a meta-analysis was not possible. Seventeen articles describing 14 interventions in three countries (South Africa, Tunisia and Uganda) were included. Effect scores indicated no overall effect on dietary behaviours, with some beneficial effects on physical activity and anthropometric outcomes. The quality of evidence was predominantly weak. We identified barriers and facilitators to successful interventions, and these were largely resource-related. Our systematic review highlights research gaps in targeting alternative settings to schools, and younger age groups, and a need for more rigorous designs for evaluating effectiveness. We also recommend process evaluations being used more widely.

The Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Snacking and Weight among Adolescents: A Scoping Review

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Determinants of lung health across the life course in sub-Saharan Africa

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“…Further research is needed to explore obesity prevention interventions in LMICs to impact on dietary behaviours and physical activity levels. 88 Another emerging global public health concern is the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), particularly among young people. Lack of long-term safety data means that the effect of chronic exposure to ecigarette emissions, containing nicotine, volatile carbonyls, reactive oxygen species, furans and metals on respiratory health is unknown.…”

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