A National Strategy for Promoting Physical Activity in Oman; A call for action

• Main Authors: Ruth Mabry, Neville Owen, Elizabeth Eakin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Sultan Qaboos University 2014-05-01
• Series: Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal
• Subjects: Epidemiology; Public Health; Physical Activity; Health Policy; Oman
• Online Access: http://web.squ.edu.om/squmj/includes/tng/pub/tNG_download.asp?id=baa7507aa9471fa66adafc24f61b4e3e

The increasing prevalence of chronic disease in Oman is a public health challenge. Available evidence in Oman on physical inactivity, the fourth leading risk factor for chronic disease, calls for urgent action to reduce physical inactivity as part of a key strategy to address chronic disease in Oman. The public health implications of this evidence for Oman are considered in light of recommendations outlined in the Toronto Charter for Physical Activity. The charter provides a systematic approach of physical activity and outlines an action plan that could be adapted to the Omani context. Urgent intersectoral action focusing on a shared goal and a more deliberate public health response addressing physical inactivity is required. Further research is needed on the determinants of physical inactivity and culturally appropriate interventions in order to guide future public health actions.