Addressing Adolescent Obesity in the UAE: Breaking the Cycle for a Healthier Future - Dr. Asma Deeb

Healthcare professionals are encouraged to screen children and adolescents regularly, assess for associated health issues, and offer guidance on holistic obesity management

According to the World Obesity Atlas 2023, obesity among adolescents is an increasing con-cern in the MENA region, with prevalence rates significantly surpassing global averages. This worrying trend underscores the urgent need to address adolescent obesity as a pressing health issue.

Dr Asma Deeb, a renowned Pediatric Endocrinologist, explains that multiple factors contribute to adolescent obesity in the region. Sedentary lifestyles, prolonged screen time, and easy access to processed and unhealthy foods are significant contributors. Additionally, genetic predisposi-tion, prenatal factors, and parental habits also elevate the risk of obesity.

Beyond physical health, obesity profoundly affects adolescents' mental well-being. Weight-based teasing, stigmatisation, and body dissatisfaction can lead to depression, anxiety, and eat-ing disorders, creating a vicious cycle that greatly impacts their quality of life.

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