The double-edged sword of social representations: How obesity challenges health promotion from primary care

Abstract

Obesity as a complex phenomenon is rooted in historical, sociocultural, and economic dimensions. From the realm of medical knowledge and despite numerous proposed interventions, its prevention remains a challenge, which underscores the need to examine the inherent contradictions of contemporary capitalism that actively promotes the consumption of ultra-processed foods while normalizing obesogenic environments, yet stigmatizes their bodily effects. This study analyzes how the social representations of Primary Health Care Technicians (TAPS) in the Municipality of Nezahualcóyotl regarding obesity not only influence their self-care practices, but also, being permeated by biomedical discourse and their structural position in society, may hinder the promotion of healthy lifestyles both within the institution and in their community, affecting the achievement of public health objectives. The study adopts a qualitative, participatory, and cross-sectional design approach, employing semi-structured interviews and observation forms to collect relevant contexts and discourses. This methodology allows for exploring the perceptions, practices, and discourses of TAPS in their work and social environments. The study questions the reductionist view of obesity as a cause and condition of individual responsibility and a morbid phenomenon of biomedical nature. Its relevance lies in exploring the structural and discursive dimensions that shape it, demonstrating how economic interests and social structures mold dominant narratives. It is essential to promote an emancipatory understanding to formulate more effective public health policies and actions.