Perceptions of Chileans, Common Factors among Individuals Living with Obesity and the Reforms Necessary to Lower the Rate of Obesity in Valparaíso, Chile

Chile is making a transition in development to a country with the burden of a substantial percent (25% of adults are clinically obese).  Currently there is limited research investigating Chileans perceptions of nutrition and access to service, such as a nutritionist.  This investigation aimed to document concepts of nutrition and provides information for planning reforms to lower rates of obesity.

A mixed methods approach was utilized in this study. An in-depth interview with a nutritionist was carried out regarding reforms necessary to reduce the national rate of obesity.  A cross sectional convenience sample survey was distributed to university students to determine their knowledge of nutrition and perceptions of obesity, and adults diagnosed with obesity to analyze health determinants.

University students and obese adults yielded similar results in all categories of the survey regarding their attitude toward exercise, consumption, and the prevalence of obesity.  Data revealed a statistical difference between sample groups regarding their opinion on access to nutritional services.

Previous studies demonstrate proximity as an important factor in consumption of fast food.  The in-depth interview results confirmed the findings of previous research, suggesting government reforms limiting access to types of food that are high in fats and sugars (i.e., fast food) in schools and the workplace.  Survey data revealed an increased emphasis on education is necessary to rectify misguided perceptions and stop the increasing rate of obesity.  Following this investigation, future studies are necessary to investigate the cause for differences in perception of nutritional services among distinctive age groups.