Determinants of Childhood Obesity in the UK: A Systematic Literature Review

Childhood obesity represents a pressing public health concern, with implications for both immediate and long-term physical and psychosocial health outcomes. This systematic literature review focused on synthesising evidence regarding the core determinants of childhood obesity within the UK context. A total of 15 studies were included, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative designs. The review identified five interrelated themes shaping childhood obesity: biological determinants, socioeconomic inequality, lifestyle behaviours, food environment and recreational spaces, and psychosocial influences. Findings indicate that obesity in children emerges from complex interactions between inherent predispositions, such as genetic susceptibility and early-life growth patterns, and modifiable factors, including family and caregiver practices, lifestyle behaviours, environmental exposures, and social-emotional contexts. Importantly, UK-specific evidence largely aligned with global literature, suggesting that internationally derived strategies and interventions may be adapted and implemented effectively within the UK context. Implications for practice highlight the need for integrated, multi-level, and culturally sensitive interventions that engage families, caregivers, schools, and communities, promote socioeconomic support alongside healthy diet and physical activity, improve access to supportive environments, and address psychosocial wellbeing. Future research is to be encouraged to further elucidate the dynamics and determinants of childhood obesity, and help inform the development of more targeted, effective, and contextually relevant prevention and intervention strategies. Through ongoing research and evidence synthesis, a deeper understanding of the interplay between biological, behavioural, environmental, and psychosocial factors can be achieved, ultimately guiding the design of interventions and policies that are both effective and sustainable in reducing childhood obesity within the UK.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

msc

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• Chaparova, Margarita Vasileva

• RA Agweddau cyhoeddus am feddygaeth

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:4212