The Spread of Obesity in Developing and Transitional Countries: A Focus on the Mekong Region, Southeast Asia

AuthorLisa R. Pawloski,Kevin M. Curtin,Shaneka Thurman,Manyat Ruchiwit
Published date01 April 2012
Date01 April 2012
DOIhttp://doi.org/10.1515/1948-4682.1198
Volume 4, Issue 1 • 2012 • Article 4
The Spread of Obesity in Developing and Transitional
Countries: A Focus on the Mekong Region, Southeast Asia
Lisa R. Pawloski, George Mason University
Shaneka Thurman, George Mason University
Kevin M. Curtin, George Mason University
Manyat Ruchiwit, Thammasat University
Pawloski, Lisa R.; Thurman, Shaneka; Curtin, Kevin M.; and Ruchiwit, Manyat (2012) "The Spread
of Obesity in Developing and Transitional Countries: A Focus on the Mekong Region, Southeast
Asia," World Medical & Health Policy: Vol. 4: Iss. 1, Article 4.
©2012 Policy Studies Organization
DOI: 10.1515/1948-4682.1198
The Spread of Obesity in Developing and
Transitional Countries: A Focus on the
Mekong Region, Southeast Asia
Lisa R. Pawloski, George Mason University
Shaneka Thurman, George Mason University
Kevin M. Curtin, George Mason University
Manyat Ruchiwit, Thammasat University
Abstract
Introduction: Obesity policies in transitional countries are limited as most have needed to
focus resources on reducing hunger, poverty, and infectious diseases. The Mekong Region is one
such area that is still facing issues of undernutrition and infectious disease, yet has a growing
population at risk of obesity related diseases. Such a dual burden creates a dilemma regarding which
issue to address first, given limited resources. This review addresses this problem from a policy
perspective.
Materials and Methodology: Comparative analyses of literature reviews, existing policy, and
previous research were synthesized among countries within the Mekong Region.
Results: Traditional diets, quickly emerging fast food markets, and urbanization add levels of
complexity to managing and creating obesity policy. Existing policies have not been successful and
there are few measurable outcomes.
Conclusion and Policy Implications: Obesity-related policies have been initiated in the
Mekong Region, but with few resources and conflicting priorities, several countries are at risk
of being left behind. Suggested policies in the region include utilizing mass media education
campaigns, modeling other successful public health programs, and promoting culturally and
regionally appropriate interventions.
KEYWORDS: obesity, Mekong Region, nutrition transition, obesity policy
Author Notes: This work was supported by the National Research University Project of Thailand
Office of Higher Education Commission. Conflicts of interest: None declared. Corresponding
author: Lisa R. Pawloski. Email: lpawlosk@gmu.edu.

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