The cross cultural context of obesity: an INCLEN multicentre collaborativestudy

Associations between obesity and cardiovascular disease have been documente d in the Developed World and have been linked with levels of 'development' in Developing World countries. This study aimed to explore the sociocultura l influences on attitudes towards obesity, physical activity and dietary ch ange using a four level conceptual framework (from personal to societal inf luences). Focus group discussions were conducted in: India, Indonesia, Came roon, Egypt and Australia, The results of these discussions were analysed t o reveal emergent themes. The interpretation of the qualitative data emphas ised the need to incorporate influences beyond the individual in efforts to reverse or prevent obesity related disease. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.