Indigenous Health Perspectives For Obesity In Australia

Analysis of Chosen media Item

Discuss about the Indigenous Health Perspectives for Obesity in Australia.

The health condition occurring due to obesity has been identified as a major health burden in Australia and has been recognized as the second contributor to illness preceding smoking and following dietary intake. The accumulation of excessive body fat normally culminates in the development of the disease that has serious health consequences affecting the lifestyle of individuals adversely. Obesity and overweight are matters of grave concern worldwide and Australia has been recognized as a nation to be worse affected. The reasons have often been attributed to certain demographic patterns, household structure and social level determinants of health. It has attained an epidemic status in Australia with the males being more susceptible to be obese compared to females. Consistent findings have revealed obesity to be the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among the Australians (Rahman & Harding, 2013). Data acquired from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare suggests that almost 2 out of 3 adult Australians are obese and the proportion is surging till date. Concomitant to the rise in the body weight or degree of obesity, the risks for developing chronic conditions such as that of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases or coronary heart diseases, certain musculoskeletal disorders and cancers also increases. Statistics revealed that around 15% of the people who dwell in outskirts or remote areas have greater propensity to be obese in comparison to the people residing in major cities. Moreover findings highlight that 1 in 4 children accounting for 25% of the total population are found to be overweight or obese (aihw.gov.au, 2017). The capacity to manage chronic ailments become difficult due to prevalence of obesity or overweight and the health management in the affected persons become difficult under such circumstances. Thus, the issue relevant to obesity although has got global significance, yet its national prevalence and trends of occurrence in the context of Australia is particularly alarming as greater insight and aggressive campaigns and health promotional programs are required to combat the scenario that has been thwarting the lives of many. Empirical researches has emphasized on the accurate determination of the factors that lead to the harboring of the condition in predisposed individuals. In this respect social, economic, demographic and lifestyle variables are found to majorly impact the prevalence of the condition in the vulnerable population. The indigenous nature of obesity and overweight has thus been highlighted to strategize appropriate actions in order to curb the condition and effectively handle the scenario. Further analysis showed that personality traits and individual behaviors play a crucial role in the development of the disease (Avsar, Ham & Tannous, 2017). In today’s world media plays a vital character in shaping public opinions and bringing about changes in the society. The media coverage and representation on matter related to obesity is thus considered vital in procuring pertinent knowledge about the trends in its prevalence in Australia. The quality and diversity of the media coverage aid in raising awareness and supporting evidence based balanced reporting thereby indicative of effective improvisation and implementation of suitable health policies (Islam & Fitzgerald, 2016). Therefore in congruency to the impacts of media in the modern world, four varieties of media items will be utilized to procure appropriate information in relation to the topic of obesity in Australia for collecting recent data and relevant findings to gain better insight and deeper probe into the throbbing issue. Deeper perspectives and personal reflection on the issue will be further represented through discussions on the findings derived from suitable media items. Using diverse media items will essentially minimize the biasness regarding the reporting on the chosen issue.

Theconversation.com,. (2017). Innovative strategies needed to address Indigenous obesity. The Conversation. Retrieved 11 April 2017, from https://theconversation.com/innovative-strategies-needed-to-address-indigenous-obesity-7099

Working link: https://theconversation.com/innovative-strategies-needed-to-address-indigenous-obesity-7099

In this media article the author, an academic researcher by profession has penned an insightful content pertaining to the innovative strategies that, may be fruitful in addressing the issue of indigenous obesity in the context of Australia. The health disparity among the indigenous and non-indigenous Australians has been linked to the lack of physical activity that in turn account for harboring of several chronic ailments including type 2 diabetes, kidney diseases, cardiovascular diseases and others. The poorer section of the population living in the remote areas is reportedly most affected by the double burden arising due to obesity in adults and malnutrition in children. The middle age population belonging to the age range of 35-64 years is the worst hit attributed to their obesogenic environment. Surged charges of food compared to the urban centers, dearth of recreational facilities and safe walking paths along with limited availability of healthy fast food all contribute to the increased rate of obesity in the concerned population. Moreover inadequate housing, poor cooking and storage provision in addition to restricted access to information regarding healthy food are also major factors leading to obesity. Furthermore the altered livelihood pattern in case of the Indigenous Australians significantly changed the dietary regime of the population. Consumption of energy dense, nutrient deprived processed food high in sugar, fat and salt resulted in production of excessive calories that in turn paved the way for metabolic disorder like obesity. Therefore under these circumstances, the author has shown extreme concern regarding the mitigation of obesity and has suggested the adoption of a multi-level, multi-sector and coherent integrated approach together with utilization of proper resources backed by political will and commitment. In order to improve the food habit among the Aborigine Australians, recommendations have been made on the maintenance of dietary balance through increased conformity with the traditional diet to harbor better health outcomes. Levering appropriate economic policies and subsidizing healthy food communities are likely to benefit the stakeholders. Thus overall in order to establish a socio-economic equity, implementation of suitable economic policies is desirable. Thus the discussion made in the article highlights the important aspect of indigenous obesity that has been thwarting the lives of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander since quite a long time because of prevalent discrimination in terms of access to food and other facilities (theconversation.com, 2017).

Therefore the topics discussed throughout the length and depth of the article offer vital information regarding the broad topic of indigenous obesity in Australia. The status of the poor dwelling in the remote areas of Australia in contrast to those accustomed to urban lives have been compared and contrasted with enough insight and pragmatism. The necessity of amendments in terms of economic policies to ensure equitable access to health and well being resources has further been indicated in the discussion thereby providing enough scope for holistic improvements. Thus this media item has satisfactorily contributed to the topic of discussion by acknowledging an important intrinsic component of the Australian socio-economic structure.

In my opinion the establishment of socio-economic equilibrium is only possible through suitable application of collaborative approaches in conjunction with adoption of case suited economic policies. In firmly believe the active cooperation and participation of the local bodies together with the national policy makers and members of the indigenous community is earnestly solicited in this regard to allow holistic improvements and better outcomes. The collaborative approach from all ends concerned may bring positive changes that will aim to address the vital factors that might cause the development of obesity like condition. I feel the health promoting activities by catering to the physical, spiritual and cultural needs of the indigenous residents should be facilitated further to steer positive changes in lifestyle thereby accounting for effective management of obesity. Therefore I would like to express my agreement with the propositions made in the article regarding the abatement of obesity in Australia.

Hickie, M., Douglas, K., & Ciszek, K. (2013). The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Indigenous kindergarten children: A cross sectional population based study.Australian family physician, 42(7), 497.

Working link: https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2013/july/indigenous-child-obesity/

In this academic article, the authors have undertaken a retrospective investigational analysis to explore the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Indigenous kindergarten children in the Australian Capital Territory. A cross sectional population based survey undertaken in the ACT between 2004 and 2008 was utilized for collecting relevant data concerning the issue. Formal approval and consent for participation of the children were sought from the parents who themselves filled up a questionnaire consisting of general demographic information, self reported indigenous status,       information regarding medical history along with certain other questions related to the weight and eating pattern in their wards. Classification of overweight and obesity was carried out by virtue of the body mass index (BMI) parameter proposition made by the International Obesity Task Force. In course of data collection through the health questionnaire in the study, the parents who shared their concern regarding the weight and eating habits of their children were handed over a leaflet containing nutrition related information. Rigorous statistical analysis was performed to procure meaningful data. Results of this potential study depicted the statistically significantly higher prevalence of overweight and obesity among the Indigenous kindergarten children compared to the non-Indigenous kindergarten population. Further introspection on the study results revealed that 10% of the parents of children who have normal weight expressed their concerns regarding the weight and eating habits of their children while 16% of the parents of overweight or obese children were worried regarding their children’s weight and dietary habits. However no striking contrast was reported among the parents of Indigenous and non-Indigenous lineage. This vital finding related to the increased prevalence of obesity and overweight among the Indigenous Australian children corroborated with past research and thus showed a heightened national trend in the accentuated risk and vulnerability of the Indigenous Australian children to acquire obesity and overweight like conditions. Moreover, throughout the entire duration of the study period, numerous government initiatives in the form of campaigns aimed to mitigate the childhood overweight and obesity through physical exercise promotional activities, encouragement of healthy dietary pattern in children through increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. In an effort to increase awareness among the parents pertaining to the eating habits, benefits of doing regular exercises along with rendering vital information regarding certain health issues, definite agendas were undertaken whereby booklet was circulated among the parents. Thus the study suggested that the complex dynamics for childhood obesity should not remain restricted to increase parental awareness. According to the suggestion made in the study, the lack of parental concern regarding the issue should further accentuate the duty of the general practitioners (GPs) to persist their screening and management of overweight and obesity among kindergarten children in similar jurisdictions in a proactive manner. Thus under the light of existing concern regarding the occurrence of childhood obesity among the Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal Australian children, the implications for the general practitioners is heightened even more (Hickie, Douglas & Ciszek, 2013).

The discussions made in the article regarding the brimming issue of childhood obesity relevant to the Indigenous Australian population thus offered a vital insight pertaining to the overall status of obesity in the Australian population. The relevancy of childhood obesity as a vital indicator of adult obesity although remains uncertain, yet crucial information may be derived from this study that indicate the importance of carrying out appropriate interventions depending upon the circumstances. Hence this media item satisfactorily rendered a newer perspective in relation to the obesity problem in Australia that in turn might lead to definite changes in national health policies and other governmental measures.

I sincerely believe a little more attention given to the issue of childhood obesity through increased parental concern and knowledge related to healthy lifestyle practices might ameliorate the symptoms of this metabolic disease to a large extent. I think, management of childhood obesity is utterly possible if not eradication, through definite interventional approaches carried out in the form of positive lifestyle modifications through heightened emphasis laid upon healthy eating and increase in physical activity. I feel the role of government should be more active in this regard to implement suitable strategies for weight management and alleviation of obesity symptoms.

Healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au,. (2017). Overweight and obesity – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples « Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet. Healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au. Retrieved 12 April 2017, from https://www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au/health-risks/overweight-obesity

Working link: https://www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au/health-risks/overweight-obesity

In this web resource comprehensive and up-to-date information regarding the health related condition of obesity and overweight among the indigenous Australians have been presented in an easily accessible manner. The health and wellbeing of the people are intimately associated with the management of healthy weight that is getting increasingly threatened due to the increased prevalence of obesity and overweight among the Australians. Damage to self esteem and the likelihood to suffer from mental health issues are greatly enhanced as a consequence of obesity. Moreover other poor health outcomes are prominent in conditions arising due to obesity. New information available till date in the Australian context related to the obesity and overweight have been added progressively in the web resource with scopes for further incorporation of relevant information. Definite sections consisting of the policies and strategies, programs and projects, resources, publications, organizations, workforce have added value to this material whereby interested persons may easily access information and knowledge regarding specific health issue. The web resource has been successfully established under the patronage and active support and initial funding of resources received from the National Heart Foundation of Australia. Links to national policies including those put forward by the National Preventive Heath Taskforce (2009) and Standing Committee on Health and Ageing (2009) have also been provided. The various programs and projects undertaken concerning definite focus groups were also recognized. Furthermore information related to the organizations that are carrying out initiatives concerning obesity and overweight among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population have also been incorporated. Additionally, definite data pertaining to both the upcoming as well as past conferences, workshops and events have been attached in separate sections. Specific information related to the grants, scholarships, tenders and other funding issues related to indigenous health has also been provided in the web resource. Factors contributing to obesity and the consequences have also been highlighted. The patterns of obesity have been reported to be particularly prevalent in the age group beyond 15 years in the Indigenous Australian population. Significant strategies to curb the incidence of obesity and overweight in the concerned population have been attributed to specific educational campaigns, encouragement of physical activity and healthy nutrition in the vulnerable community. Preventive measures have been suggested in case of children who are most likely to get affected by the condition early in life to alleviate further deterioration of ill health and associated risks. Furthermore, the socio-economic disadvantages that have the potential to aggravate the situation have been emphasized to account for proper intervention for the sake of relaxing the burden of obesity (healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au, 2017).

The web resource fitted well in terms of providing succinct and pertinent knowledge and information related to both the current and past practices and initiatives concerning the obesity and overweight issue. The ongoing discussions and insight regarding the management of this nagging condition that has thwarted the lives of many Australians has opened up newer opportunities for the interested readers to take up definite interventions modality catering to the specific needs of the susceptible individuals. The information regarding the organizations and workforce will further add to the benefit of the affected persons to undertake definite lifestyle modification initiatives thereby allowing positive outcomes.

I feel the content provided in the web resource will help the readers to a large extent in acquiring relevant information regarding the issue of obesity and overweight in the indigenous Australian population. Therefore I feel acquiring specific knowledge about the prevalent condition encompassing its causes and consequences will enable the vulnerable people to take up definite actions for mitigating the condition through increased awareness and responses to tackle the prevalent condition.

Youtube.com,. (2017). T2DM: Diabetes and Indigenous Australians. YouTube. Retrieved 11 April 2017, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Klg7xxbudfY

Working link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Klg7xxbudfY

The video clip contains information related to the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among the Indigenous population. The Indigenous Australians have a fourfold increased chance of developing the chronic ailment and is particularly prominent among 10%-30% of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. This disease has been found to have early onset that might result in a range of adverse consequences including rise in the rates of mortality, hospitalization and financial and medical expenditures. The persons suffering from T2DM are under the increased threat of developing complications related to cardiovascular disease and kidney disease. A culturally appropriate and comprehensive strategy is desirable in this regard to effectively deal with this chronic condition. The detection and diagnosis of T2DM must resort to a multidisciplinary approach where the participation of the healthcare professionals is integral to the management of diabetes. The efficacy of medicines and definite procedures in the management of diabetes as suggested by various healthcare professionals working within the Australian jurisdiction has been recommended in the video conversation. Associated conditions related to obesity, diet, physical activity, low socio-economic condition that has been found to be intimately related to T2DM has also been taken up for discussion in the video content. The content shown in the video has been supported by the Rural Health education Foundation and essentially sufficed the purpose of education and reference for use by the healthcare personnel in Australia (youtube.com, 2017).

The media item contributed to the facilitation of knowledge regarding the present status of T2DM in Indigenous Australians thereby allowing for undertaking case appropriate plans to deal with the condition. Obesity and T2DM has been intimately related as both fall under the chronic lifestyle disorders and hold the capacity for effective management through lifestyle modifications in the form of changed dietary pattern and emphasis being put on physical activities. The higher prevalence of obesity in Australia is particularly alarming and therefore knowledge about the associated conditions of T2DM that follow obesity is imperative to account for harboring holistic outcomes through management of weight in the population.

The concern around obesity is ever increasing in Australia. However I feel knowing only about obesity and overweight is not sufficient to bring forth appropriate changes in managing the condition. Therefore in my opinion the associated conditions that often appear as consequences to obesity must also be taken into consideration to offer suitable solutions in addressing these co-morbidities because of the metabolic syndrome of obesity.

Conclusion

Australia has become the hub of chronic disorders with the prevalence of obesity attaining a status of epidemic public health concern in addition to other co-morbid eating disorder behaviors that require integrated approach for both prevention and management of the prevailing conditions (da Luz et al., 2017). The substantially increased propensity to develop type 2 diabetes is seen in case of the obese individuals in contrast to the healthy, normal weight individuals that further accentuates the possibility of giving rise to adverse health effects (Bell, Kivimaki & Hamer, 2014). Therefore, adequate precautions, proper awareness and definite interventional strategies must be adopted to mitigate this nagging condition through community based obesity prevention strategy through active eating well programs (Bolton et al., 2017). Therefore retrieval of accurate knowledge in view of the contemporary Indigenous issue related to obesity in Australia from diverse media materials will account for harboring positive outcomes by addressing the relevant issues.

References

Aihw.gov.au,. (2017). Overweight and obesity (AIHW). Aihw.gov.au. Retrieved 11 April 2017, from https://www.aihw.gov.au/overweight-and-obesity/

Avsar, G., Ham, R., & Tannous, W. K. (2017). Factors Influencing the Incidence of Obesity in Australia: A Generalized Ordered Probit Model. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(2), 177.

Bell, J. A., Kivimaki, M., & Hamer, M. (2014). Metabolically healthy obesity and risk of incident type 2 diabetes: a meta?analysis of prospective cohort studies. Obesity reviews, 15(6), 504-515.

Bolton, K. A., Kremer, P., Gibbs, L., Waters, E., Swinburn, B., & de Silva, A. (2017). The outcomes of health promoting communities: Being active eating well initiative—a community-based obesity prevention intervention in Victoria, Australia. International Journal of Obesity.

da Luz, F. Q., Sainsbury, A., Mannan, H., Touyz, S., Mitchison, D., & Hay, P. (2017). Prevalence of obesity and comorbid eating disorder behaviors in South Australia from 1995 to 2015. International Journal of Obesity.

Healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au,. (2017). Overweight and obesity – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples « Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet. Healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au. Retrieved 12 April 2017, from https://www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au/health-risks/overweight-obesity

Hickie, M., Douglas, K., & Ciszek, K. (2013). The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Indigenous kindergarten children: A cross sectional population based study. Australian family physician, 42(7), 497.

Islam, S., & Fitzgerald, L. (2016). Indigenous obesity in the news: a media analysis of news representation of obesity in Australia’s Indigenous population. BMC obesity, 3(1), 30.

Rahman, A., & Harding, A. (2013). Prevalence of overweight and obesity epidemic in Australia: some causes and consequences. JP Journal of Biostatistics, 10(1), 31.

Theconversation.com,. (2017). Innovative strategies needed to address Indigenous obesity. The Conversation. Retrieved 11 April 2017, from https://theconversation.com/innovative-strategies-needed-to-address-indigenous-obesity-7099

Youtube.com,. (2017). T2DM: Diabetes and Indigenous Australians. YouTube. Retrieved 11 April 2017, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Klg7xxbudfYv