04/03/2026
Today, we join the global community in marking World Obesity Day. Obesity is a complex and chronic health condition that increases the risk of serious illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, and joint complications.
In Meru like many parts of Kenya, we are witnessing changing lifestyles characterized by reduced physical activity, increased consumption of processed foods, and sedentary habits, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. These changes are contributing to rising cases of overweight and obesity among both adults and children. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are increasingly placing pressure on families, health facilities, and the local economy. Preventing obesity is a key step towards reducing the burden of NCDs and safeguarding the productivity and wellbeing of Meru residents.
At Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital (MeTRH), we continue to promote routine screening for BMI, blood pressure, blood sugar, provide nutrition counseling services, support community health promotion initiatives, and encourage preventive healthcare practices. We encourage everyone to engage in regular physical activity like walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, and other sporting activities of choice, choose balanced meals with traditional locally available foods such as vegetables, legumes, fruits, and whole grains, reduce intake of sugary drinks and highly processed foods, and encourage healthy habits within families and schools.