UAE to formulate anti-obesity plan

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.