A new study has revealed some alarming obstacles keeping Surrey teens from living their healthiest lives. The study engaged a group of 27 youth, ages 12 to 16. It points out the need to address systemic factors rather than just focusing on personal behaviors. The study, titled “Understanding Barriers to Health Behaviours in 13–17-Year-Olds: A Whole Systems Approach in the Context of Obesity,” was funded by Surrey County Council and published in the journal Nutrients.
To supplement these conversations, the research team interviewed 35 additional practitioners engaged in educating and supporting youth. These discussions offered powerful grounding in the struggles teens are contending with today. Key findings reveal that run-down sports facilities and the high cost of nutritious foods hinder young people’s ability to make healthy choices. As you move into the less wealthy areas of Surrey, there are fewer opportunities for joining team sports or cycling. Consequently, a majority of the sports infrastructure over there is either dilapidated or totally absent.
Dr Helen Lambert, senior lecturer in public health nutrition, said the research exposes deep systemic flaws. These problems go far beyond the realm of personal choice. She stressed that simply instructing teens to start healthier practices won’t cut it. To truly help our children, we have to address the underlying issues that impact their health.
It’s just unkind to create this notion that it’s okay to disappoint someone,” explained Professor Jane Ogden, Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Surrey. She stated, “We can’t simply tell teenagers to ‘eat better and exercise more’ – there are significant, structural issues that need to be addressed at both a community and societal level.” This perspective suggests that a more comprehensive approach is necessary to foster a supportive environment for young people in Surrey.
Considering these findings, the study urges policy makers to implement creative solutions to level the playing field and promote healthier lifestyle decisions. Professor Ogden added, “By spotlighting these barriers, we can start creating a fairer and more supportive environment that will help young people in Surrey access healthier choices and have an opportunity to thrive.”
The implications of this research are significant. It sheds light on the broader context of health inequalities faced by teenagers, urging policymakers and community leaders to prioritize improvements in infrastructure and access to nutritious foods.
