Impact of dietary practices and physical activity on obesity and overweight in Omani adults and effectiveness of lifestyle interventions using smart phone applications

Overweight and obesity in Oman have increased dramatically in recent years and are associated with increases in cardiovascular disease and diabetes. This project explored the food choices, dietary intake and physical activity of Omani adults. The effectiveness of smartphone apps on physical activity behaviours in Omani adults was also investigated. In study 1, a survey was conducted on 500 healthy adults living in Oman during the period from December 2013 to April 2014. Eligible participants completed questionnaires, specifically designed for this study and administrated by trained health educators in all governorates in Oman. 55% of the population studied were either overweight or obese (particularly those over 30y of age). BMI was significantly (p