Trends and future projections of the prevalence of adult obesity in Saudi Arabia, 1992-2022

Abstract

The prevalence of obesity among adults in Saudi Arabia increased from 22% in 1990-1993 to 36% in 2005, and future projections of the prevalence of adult obesity are needed by health policy-makers. In a secondary analysis of published data, a number of assumptions were applied to estimate the trends and projections in the age-and sex-specific prevalence of adult obesity in Saudi Arabia over the period 1992-2022. Five studies conducted between 1989 and 2005 were eligible for inclusion, using body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m 2 to define obesity. The overall prevalence of obesity was projected to increase from around 12% in 1992 to 41% by 2022 in men, and from 21% to 78% in women. Women had much higher projected prevalence than men, particularly in the age groups 35-44, 45-54 and 55-64 years. Effective national strategies are needed to reduce or halt the projected rise in obesity prevalence. Al-Ahssa Region, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia (Correspondence to A.J. Al-Quwaidhi: aal-qwidi@moh. gov.sa General Directorate of Health Affairs at

High Fasting Plasma Glucose, Diabetes, and Its Risk Factors in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, 1990–2013: Findings From the Global Burden of Disease Study 2013

“…Our study showed that overweight/obesity is the main risk factor for diabetes in the EMR. Prevalence of overweight/obesity has increased in almost all countries of the region in recent decades (27) and is predicted to increase further in the coming years in the absence of effective interventions (28). Different factors, such as change in cultures and food systems, sedentary lifestyle, and specific aspects of traditional culture (such as showing hospitality through providing large amounts of foods), contribute to the high prevalence of overweight and obesity (29).…”

Peri‐implant parameters and C‐reactive protein levels among patients with different obesity levels

“…Concern is growing about the rising prevalence of overweight and obesity in adults in Saudi Arabia. An estimated prevalence of 36% of adults suffer from obesity and it is projected that 41% in men and escalating rise of 78% in women by 2022, respectively …”

Temporal trends in the incidence and demographics of cancers, communicable diseases, and non-communicable diseases in Saudi Arabia over the last decade

“…19 The prevalence of obesity was increased from 22% in 1990-1993 to 36% in 2005 ( Figure 3E). 20 The prevalence of obesity was 24.1% in males and 14% in females. 21 In Buraydah and Unaiza, the male obesity was found to be 34.3% and female obesity was 17.3%.…”

“…11,18 However, the prevalence of chronic pulmonary diseases such as bronchitis and emphysema decreased from 17.2% among both men and women in 1990-1999 to 5.8% in 2000-2009 and further decreased to 3.5% among men and 1.0% among women in 2010-2017 (Table 3 and Figure 3D). [19][20][21][22][23][24] The prevalence of CAD was 6.6% in men and 4.4% in women. 19 The prevalence of obesity was increased from 22% in 1990-1993 to 36% in 2005 ( Figure 3E).…”

“…Data obtained from a previous study predicts an alarming increase in the incidence rate of obesity (men: 41.40%; women: 77.6%; overall: 59.5%) by 2022. 20 If left unchecked because of the absence of appropriate health education and policies, the incidence of diabetes and obesity in Saudi Arabia could increase to epidemic proportions, which may further lead to health issues such as micro-and macrovascular diabetes-associated complications, including cardiovascular diseases. The rapid increase in the prevalence of diabetes and obesity among the Saudi Arabian population may be attributed to distinct factors such as sedentary lifestyle with physical inactivity, irregular feeding habits, and intake of high-calorie foods and beverages.…”