Adolescent Obesity in Surabaya: Causes and Solutions through a Mixed-Methods Study

Novina Aryanti

doi:10.30787/gaster.v24i1.1951

Authors

Novina Aryanti Faculty of Medicine, Wijaya Kusuma Surabaya University, Surabaya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30787/gaster.v24i1.1951

Keywords:

Adolescent obesity, systemic lupus erythematosus, urban health, lifestyle diseases, nutrition education

Abstract

Background Adolescent obesity has emerged as a significant public health issue in Indonesia, particularly in urban areas such as Surabaya. Its multifactorial nature—shaped by individual behaviors, family practices, and socio-environmental influences—underscores the need for integrated prevention strategies. Purpose This study investigates the key determinants of adolescent obesity in Surabaya and proposes practical, collaborative interventions. Method A mixed-methods design was employed, combining quantitative survey data from 50 adolescents aged 14–18 years (dietary habits, physical activity, and BMI-for-age based on WHO standards) with qualitative insights from interviews with 15 parents, 10 teachers, and 10 healthcare professionals, as well as focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic coding. Results Five primary factors were identified: high consumption of fast food and sugary snacks, limited physical activity, low nutrition literacy, unhealthy family dietary routines, and peer and media influences. Suggested interventions included integrating nutrition education into school curricula, creating enjoyable peer-based physical activities, strengthening parental engagement, implementing healthier school canteen policies, and involving healthcare providers in adolescent health promotion. Conclusion Adolescent obesity in Surabaya is driven by unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles, reinforced by family and social environments. Practical recommendations emphasize multi-sectoral collaboration between schools, families, and healthcare systems. Future research should expand with larger, representative samples and evaluate the effectiveness of intervention programs to inform scalable urban health policies.

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