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05:10
Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
Published on: May 30, 2025
Australian General Practitioners' Perspectives on Childhood Obesity Management
Stephanie Lee1, Jasveen Kaur2, Hasnain Bhurawala3
1Queensland Children's Hospital, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health
|July 18, 2026
Summary
Australian GPs face challenges managing childhood obesity, citing difficulties engaging families and limited access to multidisciplinary care. Improving resource awareness and referral pathways is crucial for effective interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- General Practice
Background:
- Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue in Australia, affecting over a quarter of children aged 2-17.
- General Practitioners (GPs) are primary healthcare providers for children, making their role in obesity management critical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate current childhood obesity management practices among Australian GPs.
- To identify perceived barriers and enablers influencing these practices.
Main Methods:
- A 20-question survey was developed by a multidisciplinary team.
- Surveys were distributed to Australian GPs via the HealthMap database.
- Qualitative thematic analysis was used for free-text responses.
Main Results:
- 199 GPs responded, primarily GP Fellows from New South Wales and Victoria.
- Key barriers included difficulty engaging families, limited referral pathways, inadequate public health initiatives, and underutilization of national resources.
- Most respondents practiced in major cities or outer regional areas.
Conclusions:
- Australian GPs encounter substantial challenges in managing childhood obesity.
- Enhanced dissemination of existing services, improved clinical support, and strengthened multidisciplinary care pathways are recommended.
- Addressing these issues can support GPs in providing effective obesity-focused care.
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