A critique of proposed strategies for tackling female obesity in Egypt

ABSTRACT

Background: obesity is a huge health problem in Egypt. Its prevalence is the double among Egyptian females as compared to males. It is estimated that 75% of females over the age of thirty are overweight or obese. However, 95% of Egyptian females are not taking any measures to control their weight; additionally there is no national program to address the problem. Methods: following specific appraisal criteria, this research article provides a critical appraisal of strategies that could help in addressing the problem of obesity among females. This article includes an appraisal of interventions of promoting healthy lifestyle changes; healthy diet and physical activity. It also provides an appraisal of using social media, primary healthcare clinics, and pharmacies as delivery strategies of the proposed interventions. Findings: the research article reveals the feasibility of the proposed strategies based on the criteria of effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, organizational feasibility, and gender appropriateness