Analysis of Obesity as a Public Health Concern in Saudi Arabia

This report addresses the public health issue of obesity in Saudi Arabia, referencing WHO guidelines and local statistics. It highlights that 7 out of 10 people in Saudi Arabia suffer from obesity, with 37% of women being overweight, costing approximately SR500 million for treatment. The report outlines initiatives by the Ministry of Health, such as awareness programs and health check-up camps, while also providing recommendations for citizens, including dietary changes (increased intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains while reducing sugary beverages and processed foods) and regular exercise (30-45 minutes of moderate activity 4-5 times a week). The contact details for the Ministry of Health are provided for further assistance and information. Desklib offers solved assignments and study resources on similar topics.

Public Health Issue in Saudi Arabia
According to WHO, obesity refers to the excessive fat
accumulation in the body that can create a serious
threat to the health. As per the guideline, if the body
mass index (BMI) of a person is more than 30, the
person is counted as obese.
It was observed that, the 7 out of 10
people are suffering from the problem of
obesity and in addition 37% of Saudi
women have the problem of overweight. It
was noted that, almost SR500 million was
spent for treating the obese people in the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The prevalence
rate is 33.5% among the females while
male had the prevalence rate of 24.1%.
Current Scenario
Causes
• Sedentary Life style
• Cigarette smoking
• Lack of physical activity.
Initiatives
• Organizing awareness program on
cigarette smoking, usefulness of
exercise.
• Organize health check-up camps.
• promoting healthy diet.
• Motivational sessions
FAQs
What is the difference
between obesity and
overweight?
How can the weight be lost?
How much exercise should
be done?
Is medicine helpful in
obesity?
Contact
Details
Ministry of
Health -
Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia
Riyadh -
Postal Code:
11176
Tell: 937

What citizens can do to
protect themselves?
• Eat plenty of green vegetables,
fruits and whole grains
• Avoid excessive consumption of
sugary beverages and sweets.
• Avoid consumption of fried,
junk, packaged and processed
foods.
• Engage in 30 to 45 minutes of
moderate exercise at least 4 to 5
times a week, such as brisk
walking, swimming, jogging.