Introduction: The prevalence of children being overweight or obese in Trinidad and Tobago has dramatically increased from 11% in 2001 to 51% in 2018. This has major implications for the morbidity and mortality of the nation, and the prevalence of diabetes has tripled in the nation since 1980. We sought to understand the increased prevalence of obesity among children in Trinidad and Tobago.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews with community members and healthcare professionals (n=18) in Trinidad & Tobago sought to explore perceptions and attitudes regarding the rise of childhood obesity in Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, we reviewed existing governmental and academic interventions practices.

Results & Discussion: Community members and healthcare professionals identified the growth of fast food and soft drink industries and their widespread advertising as factors contributing to the rise of childhood obesity. Ministry of Health efforts were perceived as contrary to cultural views around food. The 2017 sugary drink ban in schools was perceived as ineffective due to implementation challenges. A divisive political climate and lack of physical education and health curricula emerged as prominent themes.

Conclusion: Interviews highlighted the significance of research, education, screening, healthcare integration, culture, food availability, and government action. Multidisciplinary approaches from other nations can be adopted to address this public health crisis, mindful of the unique cultures and context of Trinidad & Tobago.