DOHA: World Obesity Day is an annual event celebrated on March 4 each year. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), this day is dedicated to strengthening global efforts to raise awareness about the impact of obesity on public health.
Obesity is considered one of the greatest challenges of modern times as it is associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
The day also aims to encourage individuals to adopt healthy lifestyles through proper nutrition and physical activity to curb the spread of obesity.
Additionally, it seeks to promote the role of health institutions and governments in providing support for obese individuals to receive appropriate treatment and care.
Regarding obesity rates in Qatar compared to Arab and global levels, recent studies indicate that 46.1% of women and 35.9% of men over the age of 18 in Qatar suffer from obesity.
Another study examined obesity trends among children in the country over the academic years 2016–2017 and 2019–2020.
The findings showed that the prevalence of overweight and obesity among children aged 5 to 14 increased from 44% in 2016–2017 to 49% in 2019–2020, with obesity accounting for 27% and overweight for 21.6%.
Dietician Dana Nassar (pictured) from Al Waab Health Centre, under the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), states that obesity is an increasing health issue in many countries, including Qatar.
Several key factors contribute to rising obesity rates, including, inactive lifestyle, unhealthy diet, and genetic factors.
Nassar added that the best way to manage obesity is through a comprehensive approach that combines healthy nutrition, physical activity, and psychological support.
A well-balanced diet with moderate calorie reduction should be followed, focusing on low-calorie foods while avoiding skipping meals — especially breakfast, which is essential. Eating five to six small meals instead of three large meals is also recommended.
A fibre-rich diet, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, helps maintain a feeling of fullness for longer, while limiting the consumption of saturated fats and sugars. Exercise is advised for 150 minutes per week (around 30 minutes per day) with moderate activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.
Lifestyle changes should also include seven to nine hours of quality sleep as lack of sleep can lead to weight gain by increasing hunger-related hormones. Drinking sufficient water can also help reduce appetite and improve metabolism.
Dana Nassar explained that in some cases, traditional weight-loss methods like diet and exercise may not be effective, requiring medical treatments under a doctor’s supervision to determine the best option based on the patient’s health condition. These treatments include appetite suppressant medications, fat absorption inhibitors, blood sugar-regulating injections, and drugs that modify appetite and eating behaviour.
PHCC also provides a Health Coach Clinic, designed to support patients with obesity and chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure in improving their quality of life under the supervision of nutrition and health science specialists.
