The Ministry of Public Health in Qatar has recognized 57 primary care physicians for completing an obesity management certification program. In partnership with QMI at HMC, this initiative underscores Qatar’s commitment to obesity prevention. The event coincided with World Obesity Day and highlighted the need for systemic reforms to address obesity issues effectively.
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in Qatar, in collaboration with its partners, recently held a symposium to honor 57 primary care physicians from the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) who have completed an internationally recognized obesity management certification program. This program, conducted in partnership with the Qatar Metabolic Institute (QMI) at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), underscores Qatar’s commitment to improving obesity prevention and treatment.
The ceremony took place ahead of World Obesity Day on March 4, which is led by the World Obesity Federation to raise awareness and encourage collective efforts to combat obesity. The theme for this year, “Change Systems, Healthier Lives,” highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms across healthcare, policy, food systems, and community environments worldwide to address obesity issues.
Sheikh Dr. Mohamed Al Thani, Director of Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention Programs at MoPH, stressed the necessity of collaborative action against obesity and its related health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. He stated, “Obesity is not just an individual challenge. It is a societal issue that demands systemic change… Together, we can transform the future of health and well-being in Qatar and beyond.”
Dr. Samya Al Abdulla, Senior Consultant and Executive Director at PHCC, recognized the accomplishments of the physicians who completed the six-month, CPD-accredited training delivered by QMI and HMC. She emphasized the role of primary care in obesity prevention, noting, “Through PHCC’s screening and wellness programmes, we bring high-quality obesity prevention and management services closer to the community, ensuring that care remains accessible and person-centered.”
Dr. Mohamed Aly Elsherif, Consultant in Endocrinology and Obesity Medicine at QMI and Chair of the Scientific and Planning Committee, emphasized the comprehensive approach of this training program, the first of its kind in the region. The program is comprised of three phases: interactive workshops, in-depth online training for SCOPE certification, and hands-on clinical practices at QMI’s National Obesity Treatment Centre.
Moreover, Professor Abdul Badi Abou Samra, Co-Chair of the National Diabetes Committee at MoPH and Director of QMI at HMC, reiterated Qatar’s commitment to addressing obesity through the National Health Strategy (NHS-3) 2024-2030. He detailed the Action Plan targeting obesity and diabetes, which aims to enhance screening efforts to 75% of the target population by 2030 and to decrease individuals with multiple risk factors to 30% through comprehensive prevention and management initiatives.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar has made significant strides in obesity management through the certification of primary care physicians, reaffirming their commitment to tackling this public health issue. The collaborative approach, highlighted by collaborative training opportunities, public health initiatives, and a strategic action plan, demonstrates a unified effort to promote healthier lifestyles and combat obesity effectively. With continued focus on systemic change, Qatar aims to create a healthier future for its population.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
