Promoting Effective School Policies for Childhood Overweight & Obesity Prevention in Lebanon

Abstract

In Lebanon, the percentage of overweight and obese children has increased, with 32.1% of children being overweight and 10.9% being obese. Lebanon's rate has doubled since 1997, making it one of the highest in the area. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which are already Lebanon's biggest cause of death, are made more likely by childhood obesity, placing a heavy burden on the country's healthcare system. According to the WHO, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE), and the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), preventing children obesity through healthy school programs is a top goal. Controlling food standards and marketing in schools, such as outlawing unhealthy snacks and promoting healthier options, and incorporating nutrition and physical activity programs into school curricula with additional funding are the two main ways to solve this issue. Promoting parent and student involvement, offering financial incentives for healthier food, using current teacher preparation programs, and creating thorough school nutrition laws are important implementation factors. For these programs to be effectively monitored, evaluated, and implemented sustainably, cooperation between the government, educational institutions, and academics is crucial.