Aspects of the built environment associated with obesity in children and adolescents: A narrative review

Abstract

Objective: To perform a narrative literature review to describe the availability of food retailers (groceries and eateries) and their association with obesity in schoolchildren and adolescents. Methods: The review included studies published from 2003 to 2013 listed in three databases with data on the child's school and/or home surroundings. Results: There was a higher concentration of fast foods near the schools, especially high schools, public schools, or schools located in low-income regions. Moreover, children and adolescents living in areas further from convenience stores had better diets. Conclusion: Acknowledging the relationship between built environment and obesity by establishing scientific evidence is necessary for developing specific strategies that help to control the spread of obesity in this age group, aiming to construct healthier spaces.