40% of UAE people are obese: survey

Nearly 40 per cent of the UAE people are suffering from obesity, according to the latest survey conducted by a well-known global research firm.

The survey by Ipsos covered hundreds of people from various nationalities within the age group 18-55 years and was carried out through March and April for Daman national health insurance company.

“The survey found that nearly 40 per cent of those checked are suffering from obesity…it covered a large number of people, including Emiratis, other Arabs, Asians and Westerners,” the Dubai-based daily 'Emarat Al Youm' said.

It said the survey covered six main health domains, including the general health position, health awareness, nutrition and food habits, physical activity, transport behavior and habits, and primary health care and education.

“This survey is extremely important for our clients and the UAE people in general as it covers vital health issues and gives us an idea on the general health situation in the country,” Daman’s CEO Michael Peters said.He gave no reason for the high obesity ratio in the UAE but recent medical reports blamed bad eating habits and lack of exercise.
 

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