Effectiveness of Community-Based Interventions in Reducing Obesity: A Global Perspective

Abstract

Obesity is a major public health challenge, with prevalence rates rising globally. This study evaluates the effectiveness of community-based interventions in reducing obesity rates across 15 countries over a 7-year period (2016–2023), analyzing data from 1.2 million individuals. Interventions included public health campaigns, physical activity programs, and dietary education.

Results indicate a significant reduction in obesity prevalence in communities with sustained interventions. Cities implementing structured lifestyle programs reported a 12.8% decrease in obesity rates compared to a 3.4% reduction in areas with minimal intervention (p < 0.001). Increased physical activity levels (≥150 minutes per week) correlated with a 9.6% lower BMI on average (p = 0.003). Dietary modifications, particularly reduced sugar intake, led to a 21% decline in metabolic syndrome cases (p < 0.002).

Furthermore, lower socioeconomic communities that introduced free public exercise programs saw a 16% reduction in obesity rates over five years (OR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.76–0.92, p < 0.001). Notably, countries with stricter food labeling regulations and sugar taxes showed a 19% lower obesity prevalence than those without such policies (p < 0.001).

This study underscores the importance of multi-level interventions in tackling obesity. Future research should explore long-term behavioral changes and policy-driven approaches to enhance intervention sustainability.