Neighbourhood deprivation and outlet density for tobacco, alcohol and fast food: First hints of obesogenic and addictive environments in Germany

Abstract

Objective The current discussion regarding 'place effects on health' is increasingly focusing on the characteristics of a specific physical environment. Our study investigated whether socially deprived residential areas are more likely than affluent neighbourhoods to provide access to addictive substances and fast food. Design In this ecological study the total number of tobacco, alcohol and fast-food outlets was recorded and visualized using a geographic information system. Area affluence was measured through the percentage of parents with children of kindergarten or school age with joint annual taxable income