UAE health trends improve but vitamin D deficiency and obesity persist
The latest National Health and Nutrition Survey for 2024-2025 has revealed significant shifts in the UAE’s health trends. Over the past seven years, smoking rates have fallen by 2.4%, while physical activity has risen by 11.7%. The findings also highlight persistent challenges, including high cholesterol and vitamin D deficiency across age groups.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention plans to use this data to update its public health policies and launch new wellness initiatives.
The survey shows a 14.8% drop in obesity rates over the last 15 years. Despite this progress, 22.4% of adults still live with obesity. High cholesterol affects 54.2% of the adult population, and 25.9% suffer from high blood pressure.
Childhood health remains a concern. Obesity rates leap from 2.2% in children under five to 16.1% in those aged 6-17. Nearly 70% of children lack sufficient vitamin D, a problem also seen in 49.3% of adults. Additionally, 96.2% of adults consume more sodium than recommended, and almost 60% fail to meet physical activity guidelines. On a positive note, prenatal care is nearly universal, with 99.6% of women attending at least one antenatal visit. The Ministry of Health and Prevention will now focus on refining its health framework to address these issues through targeted programmes.
The survey results provide a detailed snapshot of the UAE’s health landscape. While smoking and obesity rates have improved, concerns like vitamin D deficiency and high sodium intake persist. The government’s next steps will involve shaping policies to tackle these challenges and promote long-term wellbeing.
