Significant associations between obesity and neighbourhood disorder and access to local high street facilities (local shops, financial services and health-related stores found in a typical small UK town) were found. There was a tendency for lower levels of obesity in areas with more swimming pools and supermarkets. In turn, policing levels, physical dereliction and recorded violent crime were associated with neighbourhood disorder.
The analysis identifies several factors that are associated with (and are probably determinants of) obesity and which are outside the standard remit of the healthcare sector. They highlight the role that public and private sector organisations have in promoting the nation's health. Public health professionals should seek to work alongside or within these organisations to capitalise on opportunities to improve health.