Doha, Qatar: Obesity in the State of Qatar is no longer just an individual health problem but has become one of the most significant public health challenges that require concerted efforts at institutional and community levels.
National and global studies confirm that rates of obesity and overweight in Qatar are among the highest in the region, both among adults and children, a matter that is reflected in high rates of chronic diseases, foremost among which are diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Data from the 2023 National STEPwise Survey indicates that about 70% of Qatari citizens are overweight or obese, while other studies showed that nearly 46% of school-aged children and adolescents suffer from the same issue.
According to Senior Community Medicine Consultant and Wellness Center In-Charge at the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Dr. Anees Alyafei, obesity is a complex chronic disease driven by high-calorie diets, physical inactivity, desk-bound jobs, increased screen time, and intensive marketing of unhealthy foods to children. Sleep disorders, mental stress, and genetic factors also play significant roles.
The health complications of obesity extend far beyond excess weight, increasing the risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, fatty liver, sleep apnea, certain cancers, and mental health challenges like depression. In children, these cardiometabolic risks begin early, threatening long-term quality of life.
Economically, estimates from the World Obesity Observatory show that overweight and obesity cost Qatar approximately 1.5% of its GDP through direct healthcare costs such as treatment, medications, and hospital admissions, and indirect costs like reduced productivity, absenteeism, and early retirement.
Qatar is actively addressing this challenge through integrated health policies, wellness centers, school health programs, periodic health screenings, along with nutritional education programmes and the promotion of physical activity. Dr. Alyafei emphasises that quick crash diets are ineffective.
Sustainable weight management requires lasting lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and fostering healthy habits early within families and schools.
In conclusion, obesity remains one of the most complex health challenges; however, its prevention is possible through spreading awareness, adopting healthy behaviors, and integrating the efforts of the family, school, and health institutions, contributing to building a healthier community with a better quality of life.
