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Obesity in children ‘alarming’

Manama, October 27, 2011

About 24 per cent of Bahraini children and youngsters are overweight, according to a recent global survey; the global percentage of overweight children and youngsters is 11 percent.

Recent demographic figures have revealed that children and youngsters make up 31 percent of Bahrain's population.

The alarming figures were released yesterday as ‘The Biggest Loser’, a contest encouraging obese people to get rid of the most weight, which is scheduled to run until March next year, was launched at A'ali Health Centre.

Health Ministry health promotion directorate director Dr Amal Al Jowder, third health zone chief Dr Majida Fikri, officials representing Ramli Mall LuLu Hypermarket and sports gyms and contestants attended the launch ceremony.

The fitness awareness programme targets, particularly, Bahrainis aged 12 to 19 as part of a two-year public health scheme (2011-2012).

Children and youngsters will be encouraged to opt for healthier lifestyles to avert chronic diseases in the long term.

The six-month programme has been promoted among children and youngsters in A'ali, Buri and Zayed Town.

Sixteen contestants - eight girls and eight boys - have been selected after undergoing medical analysis to assess their motivation and physical ability.

They will be provided regular health assistance to help them set goals towards reaching the ideal weight.

The LuLu Hypermarket at Ramli Mall will provide the contestants with monthly coupons to buy health food and help them change their lifestyles and eating habits. – TradeArabia News Service




Tags: LuLu Hypermarket | Obesity | Children | Competition | The Biggest Loser | Ideal Weight | Youngsters |

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