The Growing Problem of Obesity in the UAE

Abstract

Obesity is an epidemic in the UAE. The obesity level in the UAE is one among the highest in the world. It is one of the leading health concerns in the country affecting people of all ages. The fat-rich fast-food, sedentary lifestyles, and harsh climatic conditions are the important causes of obesity that creates severe negative impacts on health and wellbeing of people. However, it is a controllable problem. If people cultivate healthy lifestyles and say no to fat-rich fast-stood and calorie-rich soft drinks, they can prevent becoming obese to a great extent. Collective efforts by governmental organizations, voluntary organizations, service agencies, media and educational institutions appear to be imperative to offset the growing problem of obesity in country and cultivating healthy lifestyles among people.

Keywords

• obesity; sedentary lifestyles; fast-stood; environmental factors; quality of life; psychological wellbeing