The Open Obesity Journal

2009, 1 : 38-40
Published online 2009 July 28. DOI: 10.2174/1876823700901010038
Publisher ID: TOOBESJ-1-38

Deterministic?: Newspaper Representations of Obesity and Genetics

T. Caulfield , V. Alfonso and J. Shelley
Faculty of Law and School of Public Health, Health Law Institute, Law Centre, University of Alberta, Canada.

ABSTRACT

Media coverage of the role of genetics in obesity causation may influence health behaviours as well as public support for obesity prevention policies. This study examined the five highest circulating daily newspapers for articles addressing genetics and obesity between January 1, 1990 and June 14, 2007. Of 776 articles found, 109 were reviewed. Results indicate a shift away from a deterministic view of obesity towards a personal responsibility perspective over time. These findings may have implications for public policy.