Billboard Busters – Exploring the impact of outdoor advertising through the eyes of children

Investigators/Team: Prof Gina Trapp, Dr Claire Pulker, Joelie Mandzufas, Prof Karen Martin; Prof Sally Brinkman, Dr Jacinta Francis,

Funding: Healthway Health Promotion Exploratory Research 2022-2024

Summary:

Our previous research has found that children are bombarded with unhealthy advertisement which are marketed to them within 500m from schools. We lack evidence on how Perth schoolchildren perceive their unhealthy outdoor food advertising exposure. Do the children notice these advertisements, do they think these advertisements impact their food preferences and dietary intake, and what should be done about this advertising near their schools?

Anticipated Research impact: Inclusion of children’s views into future policies will help to prevent the information environment being solely designed for adults and ignoring the needs and perspectives of vulnerable population groups of young people. This research builds the evidence base in alignment with key government and health organisation strategic goals to reduce the marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages to children. These findings will provide unique insight for our partners, advocates, public health strategies, policy designers and decision makers.

Contact: Contact the Food Environments Team at FET@ecu.edu.au

Partners: Cancer Council WA, WA School Canteen Association, Australian Dental Association (WA): Public Health Association of Australia (WA Branch); Public Health Advocacy Institute of WA, Diabetes WA; WA Local Government Association, East Metropolitan Health Service and the Australian Medical Association.

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