Khaberni - The Gulf Health Council for Cooperation Council States has launched a new awareness campaign titled "Oznha" targeting children and adolescents up to the age of 19, alongside parents and the Gulf community in its various categories, with the aim of raising awareness about the risks of obesity and the importance of proper nutrition, and enhancing self-confidence and a positive appearance among emerging generations.
A comprehensive campaign to build awareness and enhance self-esteem
The campaign focuses on highlighting the health, social, and psychological effects of obesity, shedding light on the importance of balanced nutrition and regular physical activity, alongside promoting self-acceptance and a realistic body image away from stereotypical and ideal images prevalent on social media.
The campaign also includes interactive content and a comprehensive awareness guide across digital platforms, to enable families and children to make healthy and thoughtful dietary choices.
An interactive test to measure health awareness
The campaign offers a scientific test consisting of 12 questions that assess teenagers' and parents' awareness of obesity, nutrition, and physical appearance. It is based on the Social Cognition Theory, which considers personal, behavioral, and environmental factors affecting individual behavior. Based on the test results, participants receive personalized practical tips to help them adopt healthier and more sustainable lifestyle patterns.
Global indicators
This campaign comes amidst rising global obesity rates, with data from the World Health Organization indicating that the percentage among adults doubled from 7% to 16% during the period between 1990 and 2022, while it quadrupled among children and adolescents from 2% to 8%.
In the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, studies have shown that obesity rates are higher than the global average, reaching 23.67% compared to 12.91% globally in 2021.
A balanced lifestyle for obesity prevention
The Gulf Health Council recommends following a diverse and balanced diet based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins, with reduced consumption of sugars, sweetened beverages, and saturated fats.
It also recommends regular physical activity at a rate of 150 minutes weekly for adults, and 60 minutes daily for children and teenagers, affirming that adequate sleep and stress management contribute to appetite regulation and overall health support.
Obesity and screens.. a relationship worth attention
The campaign also sheds light on the risks of prolonged sitting and screen usage, citing a global study that individuals who spend more time in front of screens are 27% more likely to be obese compared to others.
The campaign also addresses the issue of children and adolescents' external appearance, emphasizing that an excessive focus on it can lead to anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem, highlighting the importance of building a positive body image and self-confidence.
Community partnerships for the broadest impact
The Gulf Health Council confirms that the campaign is implemented in partnership with schools, health authorities, non-profit sectors, and the food and beverage industry, in addition to digital activation and community initiatives, to ensure its messages reach the broadest possible section of the community and enhance efforts to prevent obesity and protect the health of the next generations.
