Introducing a Conceptual Policymaking Model for Tackling Obesity among the Military Personnel of Islamic Republic of Iran

Background and Aim: This study is an epistemological account of the collective nature of the problem of obesity among the military personnel. By reflecting on the existing knowledge and current and future paths that lead to obesity in the military personnel, we sought to give a conceptual model policymaking for tackling obesity. The prevalence of obesity is a serious challenge for the Iranian Armed Forces’ mission.
Methods: We reviewed the following topics with a constructivist approach: 1- Understanding the prevalence of obesity at the individual level; 2- The relationship between military lifestyle and prevalence of obesity; and 3- The effects of obesity prevalence on the combat competence of military organizations.
Results: The prevalence of obesity is the result of an obesity-inducing context, so considering personal responsibility is not enough to resolve it. The imbalance between food intake, consumption of energy and psychological instability that comes with a military profession are the three sides of a triangle that lead to obesity among military personnel. On the other hand, the prevalence of obesity in society, especially in children, adolescents and young people who are the future conscripts or military personnel, especially among the children of military personnel as the most likely future candidates for military service, threatens the mission and combat competence of the armed forces.
Conclusion: Having a systematic understanding of the nature of obesity, biology and personal choices, regulatory functions of the military organizations, behavioral context, obesity effects of the policy-making sectors, and the cultural, social, economic and political contexts determine the level of obesity among the military personnel. This can be categorized into five levels for anti-obesity policymaking. Controlling and reversing the prevalence of obesity requires strategic patience, coordinated efforts and participation at all levels of military and national sectors.