Nutrition Transition in Iran: An Analytical Study of the Factors Related to Life-Style Regarding Non-Communicable Diseases in Recent Decades

Abstract

Background: In the current scoping review, nutrition transition and its consequences in Iran have been reviewed, and relevant health improvement policies have been described. Methods: This was an analytical study which concerned demographic, economic and socio-political context, nutrition, dietary patterns and related metabolic syndrome, or their consequences among Iranian population in recent decades. Results: In the last decades, socio-economic problems increased food insecurity, and unhealthy diet has been common. The prevalence of obesity was higher in urban areas compared with rural areas. There was also a high prevalence of nutritional risk factors; food choices tended to be less healthy; high-fat food choices has been increased, and there was lower physical activity. The prevalence of non-communicable diseases and metabolic syndrome including hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus are progressively elevated. Conclusions: Urgent preventive strategies and policies by the government and healthcare community are essential. These strategies are necessary for promoting national health, increasing life expectancy, and decreasing metabolic syndrome, diet-related and lethal diseases including cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.