Obesity in the UAE: The Path to a Healthier You

Obesity is a well-known health problem throughout the Emirates. Nightingale’s experts trained with the skills to help you live a healthier lifestyle.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of 2014, the UAE population was recorded at 9.5 million; an increase of 10,400 percent since 1960, when the area’s first hospital, the Oasis Hospital in Al Ain, was established. Over the past half-century, the UAE has made remarkable progress tackling the various infectious disease. However, we now face new medical challenges with an escalating crisis of chronic conditions associated with obesity.

Obesity in the UAE is Double the World Average

Obesity is a well-known health problem throughout the Emirates. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study of 2013, over 66% of men and 60% of women living in the UAE are obese or overweight. And that number is on the rise. According to the study, approximately 47.5% of UAE residents are obese, with a BMI between 25 and 30. Additionally, 40% of children between the ages of 11 and 16 are overweight. Not only is obesity causing severe health problems, but it’s also costing our nation in health coverage.

Individuals who are overweight are at a higher risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Last year, the International Diabetes Association released data showing that more than 1 million people in the UAE suffered from diabetes. That’s approximately 10% of the entire population. Essentially, 1 out of every 10 people in the Emirates is living with diabetes.

How are People Becoming Overweight?

Many medical experts and nutritionists agree that poor lifestyle has played a major role in the increasing rates of obesity in the UAE. Working long hours, eating unhealthy foods, and lack of activity due to the extreme temperatures during the hotter months leads to sedentary hours spent indoors. Ultimately, the less active you are, the greater your risk of becoming overweight.

Dr. Lalu Chacko, Chief Medical Officer for the LLH and Medeor 24×7 hospitals in Abu Dhabi, says that “Sedentary lifestyles and a high intake of calorie-rich foods have caused an unprecedented surge in diabetes and heart-related problems. Obesity in both adults and children further complicates the issue.”

Nightingale Health Services : The Path to a Healthier Lifestyle

Nightingale DHA registered home nurses are experienced and trained with the skills to help you live a healthier lifestyle. Whether you are suffering from Type 2 Diabetes or need help getting back on track before your weight impacts your overall health, a home nurse will help you and your loved ones on their path to health. When it comes to your health, a registered nurse can help you make preventative healthy decisions to improve quality of life

Nutrition Plans: A well-balanced diet is high in lean proteins, whole grains, fiber, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables and fruits. However, we know that it’s hard to eat the right things when we are busy and constantly on the go. So where do you start? Your personal nurse can help you create nutrition plans that promote weight loss and overall health. They will take the time to understand what you and your family enjoy eating and help you find healthy options. Additionally, your nurse can work with your childcare providers and nannies to ensure that they are promoting a healthy lifestyle for your children.

Accompany to Gyms/Pools: Exercising and physical activity are daunting, especially if you suffer from a chronic illness or are recovering from an injury. Your personal nurse will escort you to the gym or pool and work with your trainer or physical therapist to get you back into tip-top shape. Regardless of whether or not you have exercised before, it’s never too late to get active! Sometimes, having someone to go to the fitness center or pool with makes all the difference in the world.

Track Your Health Progress: You personal home nurse can help you track your progress. From tracking your weight to your vitals (i.e. heart rate, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, etc.), Nightingale nurses are trained to provide their health services in the comforts of your home.

When it comes to your health, it’s never too early or too late to get healthy. Your home nurse will help you implement lifestyle changes that will keep you and your family healthy and improve your quality of life. What better way to show your children the importance of a healthy lifestyle than by modeling the behaviors for them? Together with your Nightingale nurse, your family will work towards the healthiest life possible. Contact us today for your free home health consultation. We look forward to hearing from you.