ShareKUWAIT: Kuwait aims to reduce the prevalence of obesity among children under five to three percent by 2030, according to Dr Al-Munther Al-Hasawi, Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health for Public Health Affairs. Dr Al-Hasawi shared this goal during a walkathon at Dasma Healthy City on Thursday, held at the Hassan Abul Sports Center.
A recent study published in the Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal sheds light on the growing concern of overweight and obesity among children under five in Kuwait. The study, conducted using data from the Kuwait Nutritional Surveillance System (KNSS), revealed a high prevalence of overweight children under five, with a weighted prevalence of 10.78 percent between 2016 and 2019. This figure exceeds the global average of 6-7 percent.
In a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr Al-Hasawi emphasized the ministry’s commitment to promoting health through sports activities and the development of healthy lifestyles. As part of Kuwait’s “Vision 2035,” Dr Al-Hasawi outlined plans to encourage physical activity through the completion of 14 sports clubs, the establishment of girls’ clubs, and the expansion of youth and sports centers. The Assistant Undersecretary highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the “Healthy Cities” initiative, as well as other projects aimed at combatting childhood obesity, promote physical activity, and address chronic diseases.
He noted the health benefits of daily brisk walking, which can help maintain a healthy weight, improve cardiovascular health, enhance endurance, and strengthen the immune system. The walkathon, which included a range of activities for local residents, aimed to promote walking as a lifestyle choice that improves public health, mental well-being, and fitness, while reducing chronic diseases. President of Dasma Healthy City, Ahmed Al-Radaan, said the event saw participation from local residents and supporters of various sports activities, including games for children and the elderly. Dasma Healthy City also offers a variety of year-round activities, including cultural and health awareness programs.
