Obesity in arabic-speaking countries

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions throughout the globe,and this has also impacted people of the arabic-speaking countries,especially those in higher-income,oil-producing countries. the prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents ranges from 5% to 14% in males and from 3% to 18% in females. there is a significant increase in the incidence of obesity with a prevalence of 2%-55% in adult females and 1%-30% in adult males. changes in food consumption,socioeconomic and demographic factors,physical activity,and multiple pregnancies may be important factors that contribute to the increased prevalence of obesity engulfing the arabic-speaking countries. © 2011 mohammad badran and ismail laher.