Jordan Faces Alarming Obesity Rates Among Schoolchildren

A recent World Health Organization (WHO) survey in Jordan has revealed significant rates of overweight and obesity among schoolchildren, prompting the Jordanian Ministry of Health to implement measures aimed at improving the nutritional environment and promoting physical activity.

The survey found that 30.3% of public school students are overweight, with 12.1% classified as obese. Furthermore, the study indicated that 31.5% of students are not participating in physical education classes.

In response, the Ministry of Health has communicated with the Ministry of Education, outlining health requirements for school canteens. These include restrictions on the sale of snacks with artificial flavors and additives, all types of soft drinks, energy drinks, and homemade juices containing artificial coloring. The ministry also emphasized the importance of integrating physical activity into the daily school curriculum to combat non-communicable diseases and their risk factors.

Separately, the article notes that Jordan has recently become a preferred target for Iranian attacks, particularly against U.S. bases within its territory. An Al Jazeera analysis suggests Jordan is a convenient target for Iran due to historically strained relations with its Arab neighbors and the peace treaty signed with Israel in the 1990s.