The Arabian Gulf University (AGU) is launching a conference titled "Tackling the Obesity Epidemic: Insights for a Healthier Future" from 8 to 9 May. Attended by His Excellency Lieutenant General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council of Health, the conference aims to explore the latest advancements in obesity treatment and address the global challenges posed by the obesity epidemic. Distinguished speakers will present cutting-edge scientific research and practical solutions to improve weight management and prevent obesity, especially amid rising worldwide rates.

His Excellency Dr Saad bin Saud Al Fuhaid, President of AGU, highlighted the significance of enhancing quality of life and decreasing obesity-related health issues. He emphasised that the conference serves as a collaborative platform for medical professionals to deepen understanding of how obesity impacts the human body. Leading physicians, consultants, specialists, and researchers will convene to exchange expertise and foster the development of innovative therapeutic strategies for obesity management.

Dr Al Fuhaid also stressed the importance of ongoing awareness efforts about the dangers of obesity and prevention methods. He pointed out that obesity is no longer merely a cosmetic concern but a serious health threat linked to chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension, as well as its psychological and social effects.

Professor Amjad Albaz, Conference Chairman and Head of the Department of Internal Medicine at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at AGU, noted that the event addresses one of the most pressing issues in medicine today. Effective obesity treatment requires an integrated approach encompassing psychological, nutritional, and physical factors to achieve sustainable results. The event will highlight the need for intensified scientific research and the development of new technologies, including gene therapy and early intervention strategies.

He added that the conference agenda will showcase the latest scientific evidence regarding medications and interventional procedures for obesity treatment. Expert discussions will feature cross-disciplinary experiences, focusing on obesity's impact on various organ systems.

This conference will bring together physicians, researchers, policymakers, and experts from around the world to review the latest research, share successful practices, and propose innovative strategies for a healthier, more sustainable future. The event is expected to attract a broad audience, including healthcare professionals, nutritionists, students, and academics from the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, providing a unique platform for networking and international collaborations to consolidate efforts against obesity.

Key topics to be covered include obesity prevention and management, childhood and adolescent obesity, women's health and obesity, lifestyle interventions, pharmacological treatments, surgical options for morbid obesity, and societal challenges in combating the epidemic.

The conference will feature nine sessions, namely - The Science of Obesity: From Genetics to Disease; Metabolic Disorders: Obesity, Diabetes, and Beyond; Surgical and Laparoscopic Management of Obesity: Current and Emerging Trends; Obesity and Associated Health Disorders; Nutrition and Lifestyle Interventions; Medical Management of Obesity; Combating Obesity in GCC Countries; Impact of Obesity on Women's and Children's Health. The final session will conclude with a presentation of scientific abstracts. The discussions will be moderated by prominent speakers in the field of obesity treatment from various participating countries.

On the sidelines, three workshops will be held, focusing on nutritional management of obese patients, the role of primary healthcare in addressing obesity and basic surgical skills and laparoscopic techniques