Tackling Obesity in Maori Communities.

We used a system-mapping method to incorporate a Maori perspective to international obesity research. We collaborated with two Maori communities utilising a Maori approach (Atua Matua) to obesity prevention and overall health promotion. Our purpose was to describe the approach being used in operational terms, with a focus on the key interactions driving change. We further sought to inform the development of Casual Loop Diagrams (CLDs) that support ongoing learning of those involved and translation of the approach to support other indigenous communities. The research was based in the United States and funded by the National Institute for Health (NIH) and the Global Obesity Prevention Centre at John Hopkins University (JHU).