Schemes and barriers relating to childhood overnutrition control in Thailand

Abstract

        This article studies the schemes of childhood overnutrition control and analyzes the schemes and barriers relating to childhood overnutrition control in Thailand in order to propose appropriate and efficient childhood overnutrition solutions for the future. In-depth interviews of 9 key informants involved with nutrition were employed.

        The results show that there were high rates of overnutrition among children in Thailand. Health education and law enforcement may be the most favorable strategies to prevent childhood overnutrition. However, reduction of childhood overnutrition has been unsuccessful due to the lack of a national agenda on childhood overnutrition, inadequate funding, poor quality nutritionists and health personnel, and poor cooperation from families, schools, and the food industry.

        Appropriate childhood overnutrition control should focus on proactive strategies, using engineering of physical facilities and technological resources strategies, regulation strategies, and health education strategies.