How can GPS technology help us better understand exposure to the food environment? A systematic review

SSM - Population Health

Volume 2, 1 December 2016, Pages 196-205

  (Review)

Cetateanu, A.^acd , 

Jones, A.^bc

 

^a  School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Norfolk, United Kingdom
^b  Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Norfolk, United Kingdom
^c  Centre for Diet and Physical Activity Research, Institute of Public Health, Box 296, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge, United Kingdom 

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Abstract

Purpose: Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are increasingly being used to objectively assess movement patterns of people related to health behaviours. However research detailing their application to the food environment is scarce. This systematic review examines the application of GPS in studies of exposure to food environments and their potential influences on health. Methods: Based on an initial scoping exercise, published articles to be included in the systematic review were identified from four electronic databases and reference lists and were appraised and analysed, the final cut-off date for inclusion being January 2015. Included studies used GPS to identify location of individuals in relation to food outlets and link that to health or diet outcomes. They were appraised against a set of quality criteria. Results: Six studies met the inclusion criteria, which were appraised to be of moderate quality. Newer studies had a higher quality score. Associations between observed mobility patterns in the food environment and diet related outcomes were equivocal. Findings agreed that traditional food exposure measures overestimate the importance of the home food environment. Conclusions: The use of GPS to measure exposure to the food environment is still in its infancy yet holds much potential. There are considerable variations and challenges in developing and standardising the methods used to assess exposure. © 2016 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Author keywords

Food environments; Food exposure; Geographic information system; Global positioning systems; Systematic review

ISSN: 23528273Source Type: Journal Original language: English

DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2016.04.001Document Type: Review

Publisher: Elsevier Ltd

References (64)

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  Cetateanu, A.; School of Public Health, Imperial College London, St Mary's Campus, Medical School Building, Office G39, Norfolk Place, United Kingdom; email:a.cetateanu@gmail.com
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