Prevalence of overweight and obesity among adult females in the United Arab Emirates
2009
Sheikh-Ismail, Layla I. | Henry, C. Jeya K. | Lightowler, Helen J. | Aldhaheri, Ayesha S. | Masuadi, Emad | Al Hourani, Huda M.
The purpose of this present study was to investigate the prevalence of overweight and obesity in adult females in the United Arab Emirates. A total number of 724 females, age 20–90 years, were recruited from the seven Emirates. The sample was divided into three age groups, 20 to <30 years, 30 to <60 years and >60 years. Height, weight and mid-upper-arm circumference were measured in each subject. Overweight and obesity were defined as a body mass index of 25.0–29.9 kg/m² and >30 kg/m², respectively. The prevalence of overweight and obesity were 27% and 16%, respectively. The age group between 30 and <60 years had the highest prevalence of overweight (33%) and obesity (24%). In conclusion, the findings from our study suggest that a high proportion of adult females in the United Arab Emirates are overweight and obese. The consequences of this are a serious concern for public health and need to be addressed.
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