Mediators of socioeconomic differences in overweight and obesity among youth in Ireland and the UK (2011-2021): A
systematic review
Presenter: Dr Debbi Stanistreet, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
Other Authors: Fran Cronin, Sinead Hurley, Delfina Mancebo Guinea Arquez, Naeha Lakshmanan, Alice O’Gorman,
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland; Richard Layte, Trinity College Dublin
Funder: Health Research Board
Introduction
By 2025, adult obesity prevalence is projected to increase in 44 of 53 World Health Organization European-region
countries. Childhood obesity tracks directly onto adult obesity, and children of low socioeconomic position (SEP)
families are at disproportionately higher risk compared with their more affluent peers. A previous review of research
from Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries identified factors mediating this
relationship. This systematic review updates and extends those findings within the context of Ireland and the United
Kingdom (UK) examining mediators of SEP differentials in adiposity outcomes for youth.
Method
An electronic search of four databases, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and EBSCOhost was conducted.
Quantitative studies, in the English language, examining mediators of SEP differentials in adiposity outcomes in youth
(up to 18 years) conducted in Ireland and the UK between 2011-2021 were included. An appraisal of study quality
was completed. The review followed PRISMA guidelines.
Results
Following screening, 23 papers were eligible for inclusion. Results indicate SEP differentials are evident from as early
as 3 months of age, and are seen to persist during childhood, and to widen during adolescence. Differentials follow
similar patterns to OECD countries and have similar mediating factors: early life and parental-level factors were
identified as significant. However, this review identified additional factors that mediate the relationship, including
access to green space and favourable neighbourhood conditions.
Discussion
This review identified several modifiable factors that should be considered when planning interventions aimed
at reducing socioeconomic differentials in adiposity in youth in Ireland and the UK. While multi-country analyses
provide excellent overviews, area-specific research may produce more nuanced, and potentially more powerful
findings, which can better inform policy responses and interventions.
Implications
Identifying these factors confirms the requirement for tailored and appropriate research and interventions in Ireland
and the UK.
Contact email: debbistanistreet@rcsi.ie
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