During my repeated visits to elementary, intermediate and secondary public schools, I have noticed that many of our children are excessively overweight. In other words, they are obese. It is striking to see that some of the students in physical education classes do not join in the games. Looking back some 30 years, I remember a time when almost all my schoolmates were slim, agile, active and enjoyed participating in sports and games on a regular basis.
Obesity is a modern disorder and is the result of changes in people’s lifestyles over the years. There are of course genetic, environmental, psychological, and other factors which play a part in the problem. Obesity tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic link. Environmental factors include such behavior as what a person eats and his or her level of physical activity. Many people tend to eat high-fat foods, and put taste and convenience ahead of nutrition while, at the same time, not taking enough exercise. On the psychological side, we find that many people eat in response to emotions such as boredom, sadness or anger.
Societies suffer obesity at varying rates. Here in the Kingdom, it has been found that 52 percent of adult males are overweight while 66 percent of adult women have problems associated with overweight. This is a strong indication that obesity is a problem in Saudi society and that it is on the rise.
The responsibility to combat this problem does not rest with one party; it requires joint efforts by the family, the school and health establishments. We want to see our younger generation enjoying good health, free of the complications associated with obesity and overweight.
The Ministry of Health must be commended for launching national awareness campaigns in coordination with the World Health Organization. The campaigns will run for six months and attempt to educate people on the dangers of obesity, how it can be prevented and the importance of taking care of one’s health. These important efforts should not be left to one group only but must involve both public and private groups who should view the problem as one of national importance.
