Monash University > News and Events > Monash Memo

Families and GPs unite to fight obesity

20 May 2009

Associate Professor John Dixon

Doctors find it difficult to raise the issue of childhood obesity with parents even though they might be aware of the importance of managing the problem according to Monash University research.

The research also shows that this is despite the fact that parents want their GPs to raise the issue, provide advice and help them to manage their child's weight.

To help overcome this stigma, researchers from the Department of General Practice are working with parents to remove some of the hurdles they experience when seeking GP support.

"We want to talk to parents with children who have a weight problem about their views and needs, and the type of advice and support they have received or would like to receive from their GP," Associate Professor Dixon said.

Associate Professor Dixon said the number of obese children in Australia had risen dramatically over the last 15 years, with one in five now overweight and up to six per cent obese.

"Childhood obesity is an issue demanding urgent attention, with studies showing that rates are increasing across most of the world," Associate Professor Dixon said.

"The identified health problems, stigmatisation and costs of this epidemic are significant, both now and into our children's future.

"While state and local governments are providing important funding for programs with a focus on prevention of obesity, this is only part of what is needed to help many families and children who are dealing with this chronic condition now."

Parents can participate in the study by calling Dr Kay Jones on +61 3 8575 2224 or Leah Falkingham +61 3 8575 2223.