Using system dynamics mapping to explore synergy in an equity-focused obesity prevention framework.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Systems Science
• Health Equity

Background:

• Addressing health inequities in chronic diseases is a key public health goal.
• Policy, Systems, and Environmental (PSE) change approaches are vital for achieving health equity.
• Understanding the complex dynamics of inequitable contexts is challenging for PSE approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the synergy of PSE-related considerations for achieving equity using the Getting to Equity (GTE) framework.
• To apply systems mapping to a case study of childhood obesity prevention in an urban public school district.
• To understand how PSE strategies and contextual influences contributed to reduced obesity prevalence and disparities.

Main Methods:

• Utilized systems mapping with a case study approach.
• Extracted data from the Philadelphia Childhood Obesity Declines Project documentation.
• Focused on Policy, Systems, and Environmental (PSE) strategies and contextual factors.

Main Results:

• Developed a dynamic framework anchored by a universal school meal pilot program.
• Identified synergies among intervention strategies and unplanned processes.
• Observed alignment between community context dynamics and reduced obesity disparities.

Conclusions:

• The GTE framework combined with systems mapping enhances understanding of PSE initiatives.
• Prospective mapping can improve intervention design and anticipate unintended consequences.
• Increased prioritization of systems mapping in obesity prevention research and practice is recommended.