Prevalence of overweight and obesity among adult females in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

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/m 2 and < 30 kg/m 2, 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.