Algeria's health authorities have rolled out national guidelines to tackle rising obesity rates in this North African country.
Obesity is on the rise in Algeria and is a major concern for Algerian health authorities.
Algeria's health ministry has introduced a national guide for obesity management, reaffirming the government's commitment to tackling the country's rising obesity rates. The document is intended to help healthcare professionals with prevention, early diagnosis and treatment.
"Some statistics indicate that half of the adult population in Algeria suffers from obesity, and that women are among the affected groups, and it has even begun to affect children, which has prompted Algerian authorities to focus on confronting this epidemic," said Hamza Khirennas, a diabetology and endocrinology specialist.
For health officials, obesity is not just an issue of appearance or excess weight. It is also a chronic and complex disease associated with serious health risks such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer.
Health practitioners have welcomed the government's efforts.
"The guidelines issued by the Algerian Ministry of Health fall within two points: the first is healthy food and the second is sports and continuous movement, meaning encouraging people to eat healthily and move more," said Khirennas.
Residents have welcomed the initiative, though some stress personal responsibility while others call for stronger regulation of the food industry.
"I personally work in administration and strive to find time for physical activity, which will be the best way to avoid the risks of obesity. I believe the solution lies in a balanced diet to prevent falling into this disease," said a resident.
"No matter how careful you are to make your lunch healthy, you will not be able to. The Algerian state must monitor the food industry chain more," said another resident.
Authorities are also calling for a coordinated national effort across multiple sectors such as education, agriculture, trade, and civil society to curb the public health challenge.
Algeria steps up fight against obesity as cases surge
