Arab state reveals alarming obesity data: "We will take steps to improve"

A WHO survey in Jordan revealed that 30.3% of public school students are overweight, and 12.1% suffer from obesity. In response, the Jordanian Ministry of Health took steps to improve the nutritional environment in schools and encourage physical activity, including banning certain snacks and drinks.

A World Health Organization survey in Jordanian schools revealed alarming data: 30.3% of public school students are overweight – nearly a third. It also found that 31.5% of students did not participate in physical education classes, and 12.1% suffer from obesity. In response, the Jordanian Ministry of Health took steps: it sent a letter to the Ministry of Education with health requirements for cafeterias, including a ban on snacks with artificial flavorings, soft drinks, energy drinks, and homemade juices with food coloring. It also requested promoting physical activity as part of the school day, aiming to prevent non-communicable diseases. Meanwhile, the article notes that Jordan has become Iran's preferred target for attacks in recent months, aimed at American bases on its territory, citing an Al Jazeera analysis that relations with Jordan were never truly good, and the peace agreement with Israel did not improve them.