Context
Two in three Australian adults live with overweight or obesity. The burden of associated chronic diseases including 13 types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Type 2 diabetes continues to grow. A comprehensive approach to influencing obesity policy has never been more urgent.
Despite the best efforts of public health advocates and government strategies such as the National Preventive Health Strategy and National Obesity Strategy highlighting the need for a policy, regulation and interventions to support healthy eating and physical activity, rates of overweight and obesity rates among Australian adults continue to increase.
Daffodil Centre research highlighted increasing rates of obesity-related cancers among younger cohorts. While public health groups continue to advocate for food, nutrition and physical activity policies that prevent weight gain, people living with obesity must also be supported.
Policy Roundtable: Toward a comprehensive approach to obesity advocacy
In July 2024, Cancer Council, the Public Health Association of Australia and Western Sydney University convened an obesity policy roundtable. The event brought together public health representatives, obesity prevention experts, health professionals, and researchers to develop a comprehensive and consistent approach to obesity policy priorities; build a shared understanding of current evidence and opportunities across the spectrum of obesity policy and the Australian research agenda. Participants worked towards a collaborative statement of shared policy priorities and strengthen networks for future advocacy efforts.
Speakers highlighted obesity and chronic disease risk; effective obesity treatment and management; barriers to accessing clinical services; experiences of people living with obesity and weight stigma. Interactive discussions identified immediate policy priorities for obesity treatment and management; research gaps and priorities to strengthen the case for action; the current policy landscape and advocacy opportunities.
This presentation will report on the outcomes of the day including agreed advocacy priorities, research or policy gaps, next steps and lessons learned.