National School Nursing Policy to Promote and Improve the Health of Overweight and Obese Children in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: The health and well-being of school students are critical to communities globally, and the incidence of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents has become a global epidemic. In Saudi Arabia, childhood obesity is a significant concern, but no community interventions have been developed. Policymakers and health and social service providers should develop and implement policies that promote healthy living in individuals, including both physical activity and healthy nutrition programs. Objective: We established a school nursing policy to promote and improve the health of overweight and obese children in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This policy adheres to the guidelines of the University of Toronto's Health Promotion Center. Conclusion: It is critical to establish a national school nursing policy to promote healthier lifestyles among school-aged children in Saudi Arabia, since childhood overweight and obesity are significant issues, not just for achieving the goals of Vision 2030 but also for improving individual lives. However, this requires significant cooperation between the MoH and the MoE. In turn, such policies will benefit both ministries and the community as a whole by reducing healthcare costs and reducing children’s intake of fast foods, sweets, fatty foods, and sugary soft drinks and increasing physical activity.