KUWAIT CITY, Oct 2: During the Second Kuwait Conference for Combating Obesity, held over two days and organized by the Kuwaiti Surgeons Association, Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi emphasized the ministry's commitment to combating obesity, placing it at the top of its priorities. In his address, he noted that comprehensive strategies are being implemented, starting from primary healthcare centers, where new obesity clinics have recently opened.

Dr. Al-Awadhi stated, "This disease not only affects individual health but also threatens the future of generations. It requires us to join efforts and work diligently to provide effective solutions that enhance community health and the sustainability of healthcare systems."

The minister explained that these clinics serve as the first line of defense, offering advice, prevention, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment for each case. The goal is to reach individuals at early stages to prevent the problem from worsening. He highlighted that public hospitals are equipped with the latest innovative and effective treatments, including advanced surgical options such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, which have shown efficacy in providing long-term solutions.

Dr. Al-Awadhi expressed pride in the Kuwaiti National Registry for Bariatric Surgery, which recently released its third report, documenting more than 6,484 surgical cases related to primary and reconstructive obesity surgeries conducted by 102 surgeons across seven public hospitals.

Additionally, he discussed the project aimed at combating non-communicable chronic diseases, which seeks to address risk factors associated with obesity. This initiative collaborates with various government entities to promote a culture of physical activity and healthy nutrition.

Highlighting the interconnectedness of obesity with serious health risks such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes, the minister called for national efforts to confront this challenge. He stressed the importance of effective policies and sustainable initiatives that foster a supportive community environment, encouraging healthy lifestyles and balanced eating habits.

The conference serves as a platform for leaders and experts to discuss the latest medical innovations and techniques that could transform the fight against obesity. It offers a unique opportunity for interaction through intensive scientific lectures that spotlight the latest therapeutic and surgical advancements, as well as in-depth discussions on challenges faced by healthcare providers and updates on obesity surgery regulations.

Dr. Shahab Akrouf, President of the Kuwaiti Surgeons Association and conference president, echoed the significance of addressing obesity as a global challenge. He underscored the necessity for collective efforts to tackle this issue and to highlight the latest treatment and surgical methods available.

In conjunction with the conference, a workshop took place where 34 doctors, nutrition specialists, and nursing staff received training on various obesity treatments and surgeries, including the use of specialized surgical equipment.

The conference was organized in collaboration with the Bariatric Surgery Program of the Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialties, the Kuwaiti Obesity Association, the Family Doctors Association, and the Nutrition Workers Union to deliver a comprehensive educational program aimed at enhancing obesity treatment practices in Kuwait.