Rising obesity in Kuwait puts 43% adults, 25% children at risk

The Endocrinology and Diabetes consultant, and Head of the Kuwait Obesity Association, Dr. Asrar Al-Sayed Hashem, stated that obesity affects 43% of adults and 25% of children in Kuwait.

At an awareness event organized by the Kuwait Obesity Association, Dr. Hashem told reporters that the initiative aimed to highlight obesity, emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and encourage consulting specialists for effective treatment planning.

Dr. Hashem stated that the event, held on Friday and Saturday, March 21 and 22, at The Avenues Mall, brought together a select group of doctors and obesity treatment specialists, including endocrinologists, diabetes consultants, obesity physicians, surgeons, and therapeutic nutritionists, to provide medical consultations and raise awareness about treatment options.

Furthermore, Dr. Hashem emphasized that the event is part of the association’s ongoing efforts to raise community awareness about the risks of obesity and prevention methods, particularly given its high prevalence among children and adults in Kuwait, posing a major health challenge.

The Vice President of the Kuwait Obesity Association, Dr. Shaima Al-Asfour, stressed the need for comprehensive strategies to combat obesity, combining health awareness, education, and tailored medical and surgical treatments.

Dr. Al-Asfour highlighted that the event offers a platform for the community to engage directly with specialists and gain insights into the latest medical recommendations.

The Secretary General of the Kuwait Obesity Association, Dr. Khalifa Malallah, stated that the event included bariatric surgeons who discussed surgical treatment as an option for patients struggling to control their weight through other methods. He stressed the importance of consulting medical specialists before making any treatment decisions.

The event was organized in collaboration with various public and private sector entities, with support from Lilly and Abbott, to strengthen partnerships across health and community sectors and promote awareness of effective obesity prevention and health improvement strategies.

Source: Al Jarida