Obesity has become a major public health challenge worldwide, and Malaysia is no exception. In the 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey, 50.1% of our adult population were reported to be overweight (30.4%) or obese (19.7%), posing significant healthcare challenges to the country, as obesity is associated with numerous chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Therefore, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach to tackle obesity in Malaysia, which includes regular screening and effective interventions.

What is Obesity Screening?

Obesity screening involves assessing a person’s body mass index (BMI), which is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. The BMI calculation allows doctors to determine if a person is overweight or obese, and whether they are at risk of developing chronic conditions. The screening process is usually conducted by a healthcare professional, such as a physician or nurse, using specialized equipment.

The Importance of Regular Obesity Screening

Regular obesity screening is crucial as it helps to identify individuals who are at risk of developing chronic conditions associated with obesity. Early identification and intervention can prevent or delay the onset of these conditions, thereby reducing the burden on the healthcare system. Moreover, obesity screening can also promote healthy lifestyle choices and encourage individuals to take steps to improve their health.

Current Challenges in Obesity Screening

Despite the importance of obesity screening, there are several challenges that need to be addressed in Malaysia. These challenges include:

  • Low awareness: Many Malaysians are unaware of the importance of obesity screening and its link to chronic conditions.
  • Lack of access: Some Malaysians may not have access to healthcare facilities that offer obesity screening.
  • Stigma: There is a stigma attached to being overweight or obese in Malaysia, which may discourage individuals from seeking obesity screening.
  • Cost: Obesity screening can be expensive, particularly for those without insurance.

 

Overcoming the Challenges: A Holistic Approach

To overcome these challenges, a holistic approach to obesity screening is needed in Malaysia. This approach should involve the following:

  • Education and Awareness

The government and healthcare providers should prioritize education and awareness campaigns to educate Malaysians on the importance of obesity screening. This can include television and radio advertisements, social media campaigns, and community outreach programs.

  • Accessibility

Healthcare facilities should be made accessible to all Malaysians, regardless of their socioeconomic status. This can be achieved by providing subsidies for obesity screening or offering it as a free service in government-run clinics.

  • Reducing Stigma

Efforts should be made to reduce the stigma associated with being overweight or obese. This can be achieved through community-based programs that promote positive body image and healthy living.

  • Cost-Effective Interventions

Effective interventions, such as dietary changes, physical activity, and weight loss medications, should be made available to Malaysians at a low cost. This can be achieved by providing subsidies for these interventions or by negotiating with pharmaceutical companies to reduce the cost of medications.

Conclusion

Obesity is a significant healthcare challenge in Malaysia, but it can be tackled through regular obesity screening and effective interventions. Adopting a holistic approach that involves education, accessibility, reducing stigma, and cost-effective interventions can help to prevent or delay the onset of chronic conditions associated with obesity.