Economic Impact Analysis of School-based Obesity Reduction Programmes in Nairobi Slums, 2003

This study examines the economic implications of implementing school-based obesity reduction programmes in Nairobi slums to address childhood obesity rates. A CBA model was employed, incorporating direct costs, indirect healthcare savings, and long-term societal gains. Data were sourced from Nairobi slum schools, including enrollment numbers, obesity prevalence rates, and cost estimates for programme implementation and maintenance. The analysis revealed a net positive benefit with an estimated return on investment of $1.50 for every dollar spent, primarily due to reduced healthcare costs associated with obesity-related complications in the long term. While the CBA indicates a favorable financial outcome, further qualitative research is recommended to explore potential barriers and effectiveness across different slum settings. Given the positive economic outcomes, schools should be encouraged to implement such programmes. However, ongoing support from stakeholders will be crucial for sustaining programme efficacy. Treatment effect was estimated with logit(pᵢ)=β₀+β^ Xᵢ, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.