The role of law in the control of obesity in England: looking at the contribution of law to a healthy food culture
2008

The Role of Law in Controlling Obesity in England

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Martin Robyn

Primary Institution: Centre for Research in Primary and Community Care, University of Hertfordshire, UK

Hypothesis

Can law effectively contribute to obesity prevention in England?

Conclusion

Law can play a significant role in changing the environments that influence food choices and health behaviors related to obesity.

Supporting Evidence

  • Obesity levels in England are significantly higher than in much of the rest of Europe.
  • Law can influence public attitudes to eating behaviors and create expectations of health standards.
  • Government policy has increasingly focused on personal responsibility for health.

Takeaway

This study looks at how laws can help people make healthier food choices and fight obesity in England.

Limitations

The focus on individual responsibility may limit the effectiveness of legal interventions in addressing obesity.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1743-8462-5-21

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