SCHOOL OF POPULATION HEALTH | UQ CENTRE FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH
MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH (MPH)
PARTICIPANT INFORMATION SHEET
Project Title: Perceptions and Attitudes Toward Obesity
Chief Investigators:
Professor Wayne Hall
UQ Centre for Clinical Research
The University of Queensland
Associate Professor Fran Boyle
School of Population Health
The University of Queensland
Mrs. Natalia Lee
School of Population Health
The University of Queensland
Associate Professor Jayne Lucke
UQ Centre for Clinical Research
The University of Queensland
Dr. Adrian Carter
UQ Centre for Clinical Research
The University of Queensland
Background and Aims of the Study
This study examines public knowledge of, and attitudes towards, new developments in
neuroscientific research on overeating and obesity. This includes potential clinical and policy
implications to treat and possibly prevent obesity caused by overconsumption, as well as the impact
that this research has upon the way in which we understand and treat those with obesity caused by
overconsumption. This study will be interviewing general members of the public in both the United
States and Australia, aged 18 years and older.
This study aims to provide answers to the following key questions:
1. What is the public’s understanding and awareness of neurobiological research on overeating
and obesity?
2. How will the public respond to new approaches to treating and preventing obesity?
3. How will neurobiological research on overeating and obesity impact upon public attitudes
towards excess weight, obesity caused by overconsumption, overeating, and eating
disorders?
Why is this important?
As the burden of obesity and risks-associated are substantial, particularly in developed countries
such as the United States, considerations surrounding potential explanations of obesity are of public
concern. Neuroscientific research has the potential to improve our ability to treat obesity and
overeating and has the potential to change the way in which we think about and treat obese
individuals. However, these effects have not yet been examined and could have either a beneficial
or detrimental impact on the public. This study will help to determine how the new developments in
neuroscience research on overeating and obesity may be understood and applied in the general
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SCHOOL OF POPULATION HEALTH | UQ CENTRE FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH
MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH (MPH)
public. This insight will help to raise public awareness and debate and will provide a
recommendation for health care professionals and policy makers.
What is required of me?
If you decide to be involved in this study you will be asked to participate in an online survey lasting
approximately 15-20 minutes. The survey is accessible at the location and time most convenient to
you, whether at home or at your work place.
During the survey, you will be asked about your knowledge of neurobiological research of
overeating and obesity. This includes your knowledge and view of potential treatment and
prevention measures. You will also be asked about your understanding of obesity as well as your
attitude towards excess weight, obesity caused by overconsumption, overeating, and eating
disorders.
Your responses to the online survey will be recorded and presented in a way that does not identify
you.
What happens if I change my mind?
If you consent to participate you are still free to withdraw from the study at any time without stating
a reason. Upon withdrawal from the study all of your responses will be destroyed if you request.
Your confidentiality and privacy will be maintained at all times, and all identifying information will
be destroyed upon completion of the study.
Need further information?
The research staff will be able to discuss any questions you may have and will provide guidance on
where to get further information or assistance. A copy of the research findings will be made
available to you by mail or email if indicated.
This study has been cleared by the School of Population Health Research Ethics Committee of The
University of Queensland in accordance with the National Health and Medical Research Council’s
guidelines. You are welcome to discuss your participation in this study with project staff. Please
refer to the contact information below. However, if you would like to speak to an officer of the
University not involved in the study, you may contact the Chair of the Ethics Committee on +61
(07) 3365-5541.
We greatly appreciate your help and cooperation in this important study. Thank you very
much.
Office Location
Sacramento, CA, USA
Herston, Qld, AU
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Email
[email protected]
[email protected]