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The healthcare burden of obesity in South Africa: a reflection on the role of government

MSc (Med), Bioethics and Health Law, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand / Rising levels of obesity pose a major threat to the public health system in
South Africa and in many other parts of the world. Yet the question of
whether or not the prevention of obesity should become a matter for public
health remains contentious. In this research report, I explore the issues
that surround a high burden of obesity in South Africa, including some
contributing factors and arguments for and against public health
intervention. I will show how globalization, a consumerist culture and the
media's representation of "the good life" have contributed to the obesity
epidemic. In this context, I will argue that the South African government
has a responsibility to curb increases in obesity levels.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:wits/oai:wiredspace.wits.ac.za:10539/8792
Date23 September 2010
CreatorsFairbrother, Amy Kate
Source SetsSouth African National ETD Portal
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeThesis
Formatapplication/pdf

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