A few months ago, Mohammed Munshi, a 40-year-old Saudi businessman, was rushed to the hospital with strange symptoms. Doctors discovered his blood sugar levels were at a dangerous 900, diagnosing him with diabetes mellitus and diabetic ketoacidosis due to prolonged high blood sugar.
According to Arab News, Saudi Arabia faces high obesity rates due to unhealthy lifestyles, affecting millions of its citizens. In response, the Saudi government has launched initiatives under its Vision 2030 plan to create a healthier population.
Obesity has become a global health concern, with over 1 billion overweight individuals and one-third of them were deemed obese. The condition is thought to be responsible for 4 million annual fatalities, which are connected to sedentary behavior and poor eating habits.
The adult population in Saudi Arabia is similarly impacted, with about 60 percent of people being overweight and 20 percent being considered obese. Childhood obesity rates have increased, prompting the need for preventive measures.
Infographic by Arab News
While lifestyle and environmental factors play a significant role in curbing obesity, bad eating patterns, particularly in children, exacerbate the issue. Dr. Nabeela Al-Abdullah, an associate professor in public health and epidemiology at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, calls for increased health awareness campaigns targeting nutrition in schools and the broader society.
Obesity is influenced by genetics, environment, and dietary choices. Although there's no one-size-fits-all solution, experts emphasize changing behaviors to improve health results.
Munshi's life has transformed through interventions and lifestyle changes. He now exercises regularly, follows a healthy, sugar-free, low-carb diet, and has significantly improved his blood sugar levels.
Saudi Arabia's commitment to creating a healthier population is evident through its efforts to promote physical activity, combat obesity, and raise awareness about healthy living. Munshi's ultimate goal is to play football with his son, a testament to the positive impact of these initiatives.
