Oman's Adult Obesity Rate: 66%

Muscat – Nearly two-thirds (66%) of adults in Oman are overweight or obese, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health (MoH) on Tuesday.

This information was shared during a workshop titled 'The Plan to Accelerate Obesity Prevention in the Sultanate of Oman,' organized by MoH in partnership with the World Health Organization.

Under the patronage of H E Dr. Ahmed Salim Saif al Mandhari, Undersecretary for Planning in MoH, the workshop included experts from Oman and international organizations.

The goal was to create a detailed strategy to fight obesity, offering insights into the country's obesity crisis, evaluating current programs, identifying best practices, and developing a swift action plan to reduce obesity rates in Oman.

Salima Ali al Maamari, Director of MoH’s Nutrition Department, emphasized that over one billion people globally, including children and teens, are dealing with obesity.

"The rapid increase in obesity rates in recent decades signifies a looming health crisis, placing a burden on individuals, society, and the healthcare sector."

She cited distressing statistics from Oman’s latest national survey of non-communicable diseases, highlighting that 66% of adults are overweight or obese. "This means that out of every ten people, only three have a healthy weight."

Salima explained that obesity is not just about being a few kilograms over an ideal weight; it leads to numerous other health conditions.

"It is associated with over 220 diseases affecting adults and now impacts even the youngest members of society. No one is exempt."

She underscored the need for collective action to tackle obesity. "Creating a robust, actionable national strategy to reduce obesity rates is crucial."

The workshop discussed essential topics, including the global obesity epidemic, international recommendations to reduce obesity prevalence, the situation in Oman, and the proactive efforts of MoH.

These efforts include the establishment of comprehensive nutrition clinics, the formulation of the National Nutrition Strategy 2020-2030, the implementation of the 2021 National Campaign, revisions to the Omani Food Guide, banning products with trans fats, and several educational initiatives.

Source: zawya

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