The Saudi Diabetes Society has launched a health awareness campaign at schools to teach students about proper eating habits and the benefits of exercising regularly.
The campaign is also aimed at educating teachers, administrators and parents, Kamil Salama, secretary-general of the organization, was quoted as saying by local media recently.
He said the organization was focusing on making students understand the importance of controlling their weight and blood-sugar levels. Information is also provided to help children who are obese, and ensure school canteens sell nutritious and healthy food.
Students are encouraged to exercise regularly, during and after school hours. The program urges teachers to adopt healthy lifestyles to counter obesity and diabetes.
Salama said the Kingdom spends an estimated SR500 million a year on treating obesity.
In a related development, about 800 students from one of the largest secondary schools in Al-Ahsa underwent a series of tests carried out by the organization in the Eastern Province.
The findings showed that 2 percent of the students had diabetes. Others with minor problems related to blood-sugar levels were referred to hospitals.
The organization signed a memorandum of understanding with the Education Ministry to ensure students undergo regular medical check-ups for diabetes and obesity-related problems throughout the region, Salama said.
Basim Fota, head of the organization's awareness committee, said the program is aimed at educating students about healthy, balanced diets, with minimal salt intake. They should avoid fatty foods and sodas, and rather focus on eating fiber-rich food, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.
Children to learn healthy food habits
