(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Parents are urged to change their kid's habits and lifestyle, after a study focusing on school children in Ras Al Khaimah, found 40 per cent of them to be overweight, a further 24.4 per cent obese and 5.7 per cent extremely obese.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) had warned last year that over 36 per cent of children in the UAE are obese.
Dr Raza Siddiqui, CEO Arabian Healthcare Group, and executive director, RAK Hospital, said habits such as preferences in food, physical activity, and the use of gadgets find roots pretty early in life, and our entire lifestyle stems from what we learn as youngsters.
"This is why children need to start eating healthy, exercising regularly and showing more interest in keeping well. Parents also need to create an environment where children are receptive and even inclined towards a healthier lifestyle."
Dr Jean Marc Gauer, CEO of RAK Hospital, said many adults don't realise that their habits not only harm youngsters physically but also encourages them to take it up as they grow older.
"A family we tend to consume a lot of junk food with little thought of exercising, resulting in obesity, diabetes, cardiac issues and other such chronic ailments."
Carnival for a cause To drive away the perils of obesity and diabetes and instil healthy habits at a young age, the RAK Hospital brings back the second edition of its exciting, entertaining and colourful, 'Live Healthy Carnival' ahead of the World Anti-Obesity Day, on November 25.
The fair aims to create awareness on chronic ailments and highlight the importance of well-being with participation from all family members. The carnival is open to general public from 2pm to 7.30pm.
The carnival will also highlight diabetes management and lowering of sugar levels naturally, featuring RAK Hospital's Blue Ring Challenge for parents and grandparents, and culminating in a raffle draw and exciting prizes.
Ahmed Shaaban Originally from Egypt, I have been in Dubai since December 2005. Before coming here, I worked as an English language instructor, chief En/Ar translator, proofreader, reporter in Egypt and Qatar. I have also worked as a reporter, correspondent and simultaneous translator with two satellite channels in Dubai. I have a masters degree in media, Cairo University, 2014, a bachelor degree in English language and translation, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 1996, and three post-graduate diplomas in English language and Instruction. With over 19 years of experience in translation, interpretation, EFL instruction, and reporting. I am interested in technology, aviation, politics, as well as community, parliament and defence issues. I enjoy reading, writing, exercising, and surfing the web.
MENAFN2311201700490000ID1096136919
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.