Discover Cutting-Edge Obesity Research at Queen’s

"Addressing obesity to improve population health is really important. This means both prevention and management – we desperately need the appropriate healthcare services to support people living with obesity to achieve their best mental and physical health. Changes are needed at many different levels in our society to support individuals with healthy behaviours, there’s no one single solution".

– Dr Laura McGowan, Lead for the Association for the Study of Obesity Northern Ireland

Queen’s researchers undertake cutting-edge research on both societal and environmental causes leading to the development of obesity, and also critically important, “person first” approaches to weight management and supporting those living with obesity.

PREGNANCY AND MOTHERHOOD

Queen's research in antenatal and postpartum weight gain and obesity is at the forefront of advancing maternal health. Our studies delve into the intricate links between weight status during and after pregnancy and the subsequent impact on both mother and child. By tailoring behavioural interventions to individual needs, Queen's science-backed weight management support methodologies empower mothers to maintain healthy food and activity habits that promote optimal weight gain during pregnancy and facilitate healthy postpartum weight management.

PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Queen's has conducted groundbreaking research to explore the intricate relationship between socio-economic and environmental factors in the context of obesity. Studies highlight how economic disparities, limited access to nutritious foods, and obesogenic environments contribute to the rising obesity rates. By comprehensively examining these factors, Queen's researchers have emphasised the need for holistic solutions that go beyond individual behaviour modification.

Canteen Study 2024
Composite scoring to identify and rectify factors contributing to obesity in Irish children
Plating up appropriate portion sizes for children
Food choices in economically disadvantaged families in Northern Ireland
Links between chemical exposure to obesogens, predisposing people to obesity in vitro
Urban environment build up correlating to rising numbers of people living with obesity in India and America

DIGITAL AND MHEALTH WEIGHT MANAGEMENT SUPPORT

The innovative utilisation of SMS and mHealth applications has emerged as a powerful tool in promoting healthy weight management. By harnessing the ubiquity of mobile devices, these technologies offer personalised and real-time support to individuals seeking to maintain or achieve a healthy weight. Queen’s researchers are currently investigating the use of SMS-based interventions to provide timely reminders, motivational messages, and informational content that empower men living with obesity to make healthier dietary and lifestyle choices.

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS

Queen's research aims to aid in reshaping public perceptions of individuals living with obesity, advocating for a person-first focused holistic approach to care and a significant shift in societal attitudes, fostering empathy, understanding, and reducing stigma associated with obesity. Queen's champions holistic approaches to obesity prevention, recognising that a multifaceted strategy encompassing environmental and structural changes, dietary education, physical activity promotion, mental health support, and community engagement yields the most enduring results.

PUBLIC AND PLANETARY HEALTH

Queen's researchers delve into the intricate relationship between improving urban environments and the consequential effect this has on both population and planetary health. By harnessing the potential of green and blue spaces within cities, this research provides invaluable insights into creating sustainable, liveable cities that prioritise the health and harmony of both people and the planet.

^{All images courtesy of the European Coalition for People Living with Obesity.}