Abstract
Background: Vietnam’s postwar globalization, economic development, and urbanization have contributed to a nutrition transition from traditional diets to highly-processed diets, and increased prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity. There is a need to understand the attitudes and behaviors driving this epidemic. Methods: This qualitative study focused on the perspectives and practices of Vietnamese parents, schoolteachers and doctors. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of twelve regarding the historical, social, and cultural influences contributing to childhood overweight and obesity. Audio-recorded interviews were translated and transcribed, then analyzed using modified ground theory to identify themes and representative quotes. Results: Five themes were identified: 1) Change in diet between generations, 2) Preference for rounder children, 3) Unhealthy feeding practices, 4) Reduced physical activity, and 5) Increasing awareness of childhood obesity. A conceptual map detailed the shift from wartime to postwar economic environment and psycho-social context for raising children to be large, safe and academically-successful. Conclusion: We found globalization, urbanization and economic development—in the context of historical, social and cultural attitudes—may contribute to increasing child obesity in Vietnam. Reduction through public health and educational institutions should involve policies and programs for healthy eating and exercise, tailored to address parental figures’ concerns.
“I would rather be told than not know” - A qualitative study exploring parental views on identifying the future risk of childhood overweight and obesity during infancy
