UAE | Health
UAE to formulate anti-obesity plan
The UAE is working on a strategy to combat rising obesity rates and related health problems with the help of an international health organisation.
- Staff Report
- Published: 00:00 March 6, 2007
Dubai: The UAE is working on a strategy to combat rising obesity rates and related health problems with the help of an international health organisation.
The UAE Health Ministry, GCC Council of Health Ministers and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are meeting for a three-day workshop to formulate a strategy on diet, physical activity and health.
Highest rate
The UAE records one of the highest rates of obesity in the world, higher than the US. It is blamed on a sedentary lifestyle and easy access to food high in fat and calories. It also has one of the highest rates of diabetes, one of many obesity-related diseases, with an estimated one in five adults affected. Dr Huda Al Suwaidi, a consultant in family medicine at the ministry, said bad diet and lack of physical exercise were causing a wide range of health problems.
"The private and commercial sector have to help us educate the community; they have to help us, help the people," she added in a statement.
The three-day workshop which started yesterday, is being held at the Renaissance Hotel and will feature speakers from all three organisations.
Latest news
- Sharjah boy tops Indian board's class 12 exams
- Dubai number plates auction raises Dh27m
- Youngsters dance and raise cash for charity
- Dubai departments upgrade services
- Get yourself a free test for diabetes
- Ensuring a safety net for intellectual property
- Reader's issue addressed
- 5,552 illegals held in Dubai this year
- Man cleared because he took drugs in France
- Man charged with trafficking women
- Auditors to probe Mizin graft case
- Breaking down cultural barriers with photographs
- Abu Dhabi Crown Prince visits Islamic centre
- Smart e-Gate system launched
- Cyber infidelity creeping out of virtual domain
Community Reports
-
Mirror, mirror show me the way
Driver on Salam Street had so many boxes and fruits piled into car, he would not be able to view rear or right side mirrors
-
Parents should be more vigilant
Reader's picture highlights risk of negligence by caretakers
-
Warming up to ‘Mobilise the Earth' theme
Dubai school dedicates a whole week to celebrating Earth Day with can-collection drives, sapling plantation and painting competition among others
-
Drivers using mobiles put others' lives at risk
Speeding is dangerous for the driver and other motorists
