In 2003, the National Heart Foundation of Australia undertook a
review and mapping project to inform the organisation's work
in the area of overweight and obesity. The three tasks involved
were:
- A review and summary of the literature on the relationship
between overweight and obesity and CVD.
- A review of intervention studies that address the overweight
and obesity issue.
- A mapping of activities and interventions in Australia that
address overweight and obesity.
The findings from these tasks are available in the form of four reports / documents:
1. Summary of outcomes (provides an overview of the findings as generated by the three tasks undertaken).
2. The relationship between overweight, obesity and cardiovascular disease. A literature review prepared for the National Heart Foundation of Australia. This report indicates that there is strong and consistent evidence linking excess weight and heart disease. This association is not confined to just heart disease, but also to its corresponding risk factors.
3. Detailed review of intervention studies: How do we best address the issues of overweight, obesity and cardiovscular disease?
4. Current activity in Australia to address overweight, obesity and cardiovascular disease - an overview.
The findings from these reports are particularly important because of the growing awareness of the national obesity epidemic. The Heart Foundation aims to use these findings to develop an Action Plan to address overweight and obesity, which will be implemented from 2005 to 2007.
Website:
National Heart Foundation of Australia -
http://www.heartfoundation.com.au