A new weight loss contest has been announced by RAK Hospital on Monday in association with the Ministry of Health and Prevention. Under the ‘RAK Biggest Weight Loser Challenge’ (RBWL), the winner of the contest could win Dh500 for each kilo they shed during the 10-week challenge.

Commencing on December 17, the challenge would conclude on March 14, 2022 on the occasion of ‘World Obesity Day’. Organisers of the contest are looking forward to the participation of more than 3,000 people from across the UAE.

Organisers explained that the challenge is divided into three categories: Physical, Virtual, and Corporate.

Physical

The challenge will start with the authorities weighing the participants on December 17-19 at the hospital premises. A team of doctors, nurses and support staff will be measuring the weight and other vital parameters of all participants to register them for the challenge.

Virtual and corporate

Those UAE residents who would be unable to attend the event physically can also participate through this category. As part this category, participants can measure their weight and vitals at their local clinic and upload the authenticated registration form on the contest website. Lastly, people can participate through the ‘Corporate Teams Challenge’ category for teamwork and need for motivation to reduce weight.

Winners can get rewards ranging from cash prizes to staycations, health and holiday packages and dining vouchers.

The authorities also added that winners of all three categories will be felicitated during an awards ceremony.

There will be a total of five winners: One male and one female each in the physical and virtual categories; and one corporate team.

Dr. Raza Siddiqui, executive director at RAK Hospital, welcomed all UAE residents to participate in the initiative aimed at motivating people of all ages to get fitter and healthier.

"Even though the pandemic has moved our focus on health and wellness, many of us are still unaware of the complications that obesity poses. Our holistic campaign will not only motivate the community members to take charge of their health but will also guide them in every step of their journey through individualised charts, weekly nutrition and exercise tips, webinars, and customised solutions to achieve the desired outcome”, Dr Siddiqui added.

Obesity in the UAE

The UAE has been ranked 5th in the Global Obesity Index. According to the latest statistics, 40.1 percent of the adult population; 40 percent of 11-16 year olds; and 20 percent of children under the age of 11 are classified under obese category.

Dr Jean-Marc Guaer, CEO, RAK Hospital, underlined that wrong food choices, lack of exercise, and obesity are precursors of health issues that can result in serious conditions and diseases. She recommended adequate education and proper guidance as the key to mitigate the impact of obesity.