35% people overweight, 30% obese; ministry plans campaign

The Ministry of Health (MoH) has announced that non-communicable diseases are a growing concern with 15 per cent of the population in the sultanate thought to suffer from diabetes and two thirds of the population likely to have high blood pressure.

The problem of obesity is also rampant with 35 per cent of people in Oman being overweight and 30 per cent obese.

MoH, represented by the Department of Non-Communicable Diseases in the Directorate General of Primary Healthcare, in collaboration with AstraZeneca, will launch an awareness campaign titled Hematuk Maana or ‘To control chronic diseases’.

‘This campaign will raise awareness amongst those suffering with chronic diseases of the importance of controlling their condition and preventing complications. The patient plays a crucial role in the control of his chronic disease by following the treatment plan as instructed by his physician, taking medications as prescribed and following a healthy lifestyle,’ said the ministry.

Speaking to Muscat Daily,

Dr Suleiman Zahir al Shuraiqi, senior specialist at the National Diabetes and Endocrine Centre, said, “Unfortunately, some people have an unbalanced diet that contains a lot of carbohydrates and fats, which leads to obesity.”

Dr Shuraiqi added, “A person can avert diabetes by exercising (walking for half an hour a day), eating fruits and vegetables, avoiding anxiety and stress, and drinking lots of water. Everyone should have regular medical examinations done to discover any kind of disease early.”

Highlighting the importance of physical activities, Mohammed Alawi, head of Muscat Hiking Team, said, “A study found out that people who spend time away from technology and more time in nature are more creative and develop stronger problem solving skills and have good health.

“What are you waiting for? Let’s walk!”

A person can avert diabetes by exercising (walking for half an hour a day), eating fruits and vegetables, avoiding anxiety and stress, and drinking lots of water

DR SULEIMAN AL SHURAIQI