SOUTH AL BATHINAH: Organised by the Directorate General of Health Services in South Al Batinah Governorate and accredited by the Oman Medical Specialty Board, the conference has drawn around 100 participants from various healthcare sectors, including doctors, nurses, nutritionists, and health educators. The event serves as a key platform to discuss one of the fastest-growing public health concerns in Oman, offering a structured environment for professionals to exchange expertise and strategies on combating childhood obesity at both clinical and community levels.
Childhood obesity has emerged as a significant health issue in the Sultanate due to shifts in modern lifestyles such as high-calorie diets, sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, and sedentary habits. Experts at the conference highlighted that timely intervention and prevention can significantly reduce future healthcare costs, pointing to global data showing the benefits of early lifestyle modification programs. The discussions also emphasised that childhood obesity is not only a medical problem but also a social challenge requiring collaborative action.
The conference aims to deepen understanding of the biological mechanisms behind childhood obesity, its complications, and the role of behavioural, nutritional, and medical interventions. By improving the skills of healthcare professionals and enhancing awareness of effective nutritional assessments, treatment plans, and physical activity programs, the event seeks to equip participants with the tools needed to deliver targeted and impactful care. This includes learning about drug and surgical treatment options when traditional methods are insufficient.
Held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Yahya bin Sulaiman Al Nadabi, Wali of Rustaq, the conference featured a series of scientific lectures and working papers by leading experts in the field. Attendees explored the psychological and social dimensions of obesity alongside medical aspects, recognising that addressing stigma, family education, and community support are essential components of any successful intervention. The event reinforces Oman’s ongoing efforts to tackle lifestyle-related health challenges at a systemic level.
