In this article, we will be taking a look at the 5 most obese countries in Asia. If you wish to learn about more, head straight to the 20 Most Obese Countries in Asia.
5. Iraq
Obesity Rate: 33.5%
Iraq has a high prevalence of obesity, with rates among adult women (40.1%) being greater than those among adult males (26.5%), especially in metropolitan areas. 40 to 49-year-old adults are more vulnerable. The issue is exacerbated by elements such as low levels of physical exercise and hypertension. Lower obesity rates are correlated with larger households and higher levels of education. Iraq’s obesity policy focuses on saturated fats and salt/sodium intake; interventions are required to address individual risk factors.
4. Egypt
Obesity Rate: 35.7%
In Egypt, obesity affects over 35.7% of the age-standardized population, placing Egypt among the most obese countries in Asia. Middle-aged people are more vulnerable, with women more so than men. A lack of availability to nutrient-dense foods, poor diets high in sugar-filled drinks and fast food, and sedentary lifestyles all add to the issue. Furthermore, a low proportion of Egyptians engage in consistent physical activity, which exacerbates the obesity crisis.
3. Bahrain
Obesity Rate: 36.9%
Obesity is a major problem in Bahrain, especially for adults and children. With adult women living with obesity at 39.5% and adult men at 28.4%, the obesity prevalence rates are concerning. The rates for kids ages 10 to 13 range from 15.7% to 30.7%. High consumption of foods high in calories, sedentary lifestyles, and low levels of physical activity are some of the factors that contribute to this. To combat the problem, the nation has enacted laws iodizing salt and taxing beverages with added sugar. The financial cost of obesity was expected to be US$891.18 million in 2019, or US$543 per person and 2.3% of GDP.
2. Qatar
Obesity Rate: 41.4%
Qatar is among the most obese countries in Asia. Compared to younger people, older age groups have higher probabilities of obesity. Qatar has made significant financial commitments to healthcare. Obesity prevention measures include laws requiring the iodization of salt, fees on sugar-sweetened beverages, and restrictions on the use of saturated fats and salt.
1. Kuwait
Obesity Rate: 43.8%
In Kuwait, the prevalence of obesity is 43.8%. The prevalence of obesity is higher in women than in men, with 44% and 36.5%, respectively. Approximately 50% of teenagers between the ages of 15 and 18 are overweight or obese, with a higher percentage among boys. Cultural norms that value plumpness, dietary preferences for calorie-dense Western foods, and socioeconomic position are some of the factors that contribute to obesity. One major issue is insufficient physical exercise, which calls for interventions and adjustments in lifestyle.
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