The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Munzur University organized an awareness walk on March 4, 2025, as part of World Obesity Day activities.

The event was attended by Munzur University Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Muzaffer AŞKIN and Prof. Dr. Nuran CIKCIKOĞLU YILDIRIM, the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences Prof. Dr. Ülkü ÖZBEY, faculty deans across the university, Hasan Tuncay, Dietitian at the Healthy Life Center of the Tunceli Provincial Health Directorate, Healthy Life Center personnel, academic and administrative staff, as well as many students.

The program emphasized that obesity, which is rapidly increasing worldwide, has become a significant public health problem in Türkiye as well, highlighting its association with chronic diseases.

Dean Prof. Dr. Ülkü ÖZBEY: “Small steps toward awareness can lead to a healthier future.”

In her speech, Dean Prof. Dr. Ülkü ÖZBEY stated:

“Obesity has become one of the most serious health problems of our time and is rapidly spreading, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. World Obesity Day on March 4 contributes to recognizing obesity as a disease, encourages individuals to seek medical support, and helps eliminate stigmatizing attitudes that blame individuals. With small steps toward awareness, we can achieve a healthier future. Let’s eat healthy, be more active, and improve our quality of life together.”

Prof. Dr. ÖZBEY concluded her remarks by thanking everyone who contributed to the event.

Statements from Tunceli Provincial Health Directorate

Hasan TUNCAY, Dietitian at the Tunceli Provincial Health Directorate, stated that various activities are organized annually for World Obesity Day, noting that awareness walks are carried out throughout Tunceli. He added that obesity monitoring is conducted at the Healthy Life Center, where citizens receive guidance regarding healthy nutrition.

Event Highlights

Participants raised awareness throughout the walk by chanting slogans such as "Take a Step Against Obesity."
The walk began in front of the Faculty of Health Sciences, continued along the Central Dining Hall and Rectorate route, and concluded back at the faculty.

At the end of the event, participants performed traditional halay dances, emphasizing the importance of an active lifestyle while enjoying a lively and engaging atmosphere