Using system dynamics mapping to explore synergy in an equity-focused obesity prevention framework.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Addressing health inequities across chronic diseases is a critical public health objective, and policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change approaches are integral to achieving this goal. However, assumptions about mechanisms of effect or population salience of PSE approaches do not necessarily generalize to inequitable social and economic contexts, partially due to limited ability to operationalize the dynamic complexity of such contexts. Systems thinking applications have the potential to characterize this complexity and improve understanding of where and how to intervene.

Methods

The Getting to Equity in Obesity Prevention Framework (GTE) posits a theory of change involving PSE-related considerations for achieving equity grouped into four categories with

SUBMITTER: Headen IE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11884243 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature