Campaign Aim: Raising Awareness and Promoting Prevention
Conducted between May 10 and July 4, 2025, the campaign aimed to raise public awareness of healthy body weight and encourage healthier lifestyle habits. Through widespread participation, individuals were able to learn more about their current health status. The initiative also helped health professionals identify at-risk groups and refer them for early intervention.
A Nationwide Picture of Body Weight
The results showed that approximately 6% of participants were underweight, 33% had a normal weight, 35% were overweight, and 26% were classified as obese. The data indicated that overweight rates were higher among men, while obesity was more prevalent among women. These results highlighted the scale of weight-related risks across the country, as well as notable gender differences in weight status.
Record Participation in the Eighth Week
The final week of the campaign, held between June 28 and July 4, 2025, saw record participation. During this period, 650,510 men and 763,222 women were measured, totaling 1,413,732 participants in just one week. This surge in participation reflected the growing public interest and increased awareness about health and weight management.
Referral and Support Services for High-Risk Individuals
Based on body mass index (BMI) calculations, a total of 860,262 individuals were identified as overweight or obese and referred to primary healthcare centers for free nutritional and physical activity counseling. Of those referred, 466,921 were women and 393,341 were men. These support services are offered voluntarily and aim to help individuals adopt healthier eating habits, increase physical activity, and reassess their lifestyle choices.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Weight Management
Excess weight and obesity pose not only metabolic risks but also significant challenges to musculoskeletal health. Increased body weight can lead to joint pain, movement restrictions, and reduced function, particularly in the spine and lower limbs. From a physiotherapy perspective, combating obesity is essential not only for weight control but also for preserving functional mobility. Physiotherapists can use the data from such public health initiatives to tailor exercise programs and improve individuals’ physical well-being and quality of life.
A Strong Step Toward Public Health
This nationwide initiative by the Ministry of Health stands out as a significant step in the fight against obesity at both the individual and societal levels. For professionals in the field of physiotherapy and rehabilitation, the campaign results provide valuable insights for implementing preventive strategies in the community. Ensuring the continuity of such efforts is crucial for building a healthier society.
