PUBLIC GREEN AREAS AND PREVALENCE OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY: THE CASE OF THE COMMUNES OF THE GREATER CONCEPCIÓN AREA

Abstract

Childhood obesity is a public health issue with multiple causes. Among them we can find variables such as green areas, mainly due to the way these places promote physical activity. In the present research, the goal was to analyze the relationship and the bond between childhood obesity rates and the ammount of public green areas in the adjacent communities of Metropolitan Concepcion. The choice of methodology was one of a quantitative approach and focus, with a descriptive reach, correlational, with a non experimental design, crossed and insightful. The studied group were boys and girls, ages ranging from 4 to.6 years living in Metropolitan Concepcion who study in educational establishments which receive a government grant, reaching 29.662 boys and girls who composed the studied group. The obesity related data was.obtaines from the nutritional map of the national board of school aid and scolarships (JUNAEB) from 2019. Evidence shows a clear influence in the ammount of available green areas in childhood obesity rates, as well as distance, sorrounding environment,  equipment and total area. Chile, other countries and international organizations have expresed concern on thia public issue, promoting a series of policies, plans and programmes to adress it and solve it. Results conclude that there is no real bond between the ammount of available square footage of green areas and the prevalence of childhood obesity in Metropolitan Concepcion. Nevertheless we are all invited to generate more room for new and better plans in order to improve the strategy of control and prevention of childhood obesity.