Obesity rate in Oman stands at 32.7%, says report

MUSCAT: The activities of the National Obesity Awareness Week in the Sultanate of Oman will commence on Thursday.

The initiative aims to enhance the partnership between public and private sectors and expand care services for obesity patients. Omani Diabetes Association (ODA), in collaboration with the National Diabetes and Endocrine Centre, is set to launch the National Obesity Awareness Week on April 9 to be held at Qurum Natural Park from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm.

Dr Noor al Busaidy of Oman Diabetes Association, asked the public to take advantage of the event.

"The marathon will begin at 5.30 pm. After 7 pm fun activities will begin for children. This is where the adults will have educational sessions.

At the national level, data from the 2025 National Survey in the Sultanate of Oman, conducted by the Ministry of Health, revealed that the overweight rate reached 32.1 per cent, while the obesity rate stood at 32.7 per cent, bringing the combined total to a significant 64.8 per cent of the population. The figures demonstrate a clear gender disparity. The obesity rate among women is 39.3 per cent compared to 26.4 per cent among men, with the overall national obesity rate settling at 32.7 per cent.

The National Obesity Awareness Week is organised by the Oman Diabetes Association in collaboration with the National Diabetes and Endocrine Centre. It encompasses a range of specialised activities, including a broad community awareness event at Qurum Natural Park. This is held in partnership with various relevant public and private health sectors and in cooperation and coordination with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth.

The event features a dialogue session discussing the challenges of obesity in the Sultanate of Oman, in addition to an introductory and educational exhibition featuring the participating partners.

Moreover, a national virtual dialogue session on the risks of obesity to individuals and society will be conducted, alongside a specialised workshop for healthcare cadres and a forum for pharmacists regarding the latest treatments. This is in addition to the implementation of mobile campaigns for the screening and early detection of obesity and certain associated chronic diseases.