Obesity in Iraq

Obesity in Iraq is a significant health issue that has been on the rise in recent years. As of 2016, the adult obesity rate in Iraq was 30.4%, ranking it 23rd globally. This is a significant increase from previous years and is indicative of the growing health crisis in the country.

Overview

Iraq, located in the Middle East, has seen a steady increase in obesity rates over the past few years. This is due to a combination of factors including changes in diet, decreased physical activity, and increased sedentary behavior. The high obesity rate has led to a rise in obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

Healthcare in Iraq

The healthcare system in Iraq is primarily funded by the government, with healthcare expenditure accounting for 8.4% of the country's GDP in 2014. Despite this, the healthcare system has struggled to cope with the rising obesity rates and the associated health complications.

There are several well-known healthcare facilities in Iraq that offer weight loss programs. These include the Baghdad Medical City, which offers a comprehensive weight loss program that includes diet, exercise, and surgical options. The Al-Kindi Teaching Hospital in Baghdad also offers a weight loss program, as does the Basra General Hospital in Basra.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and treatment of obesity in Iraq involve a combination of lifestyle changes, medical treatment, and in some cases, surgery. The government has implemented several initiatives aimed at promoting healthy eating and physical activity. However, these initiatives have had limited success due to cultural and societal barriers.

See Also

• Health in Iraq
• Obesity by country
• List of countries by Body Mass Index (BMI)