Dubai resident feels weight lifted from shoulders after pioneering procedure helps her shed 19kg
A Dubai resident had almost given up hope of beating obesity and living a healthier, more active life, after a variety of diets, two bariatric operations and GLP-1 drugs failed to prevent her weight from "bouncing back". But Dunia Obaidy, from Iraq, shed 19kg after becoming one of the first patients in the UAE to undergo a pioneering treatment that targets part of the stomach to help reduce…
Dunia Obaidy, a 44-year-old Dubai resident from Iraq, has experienced a significant weight loss of 19kg following a pioneering procedure known as Moviva gastric mucosal ablation. The treatment, which targets specific cells in the stomach to reduce hunger, was the first of its kind to be administered to a patient in the UAE. Obaidy had previously undergone two bariatric operations and tried various diets, including GLP-1 drugs, all to little avail.
Her weight had previously reached a staggering 133kg, with an insatiable appetite leading her to consume five meals daily. However, the Moviva procedure has transformed her life, providing a non-invasive alternative to traditional weight loss methods. "I am really comfortable with the results," Obaidy said, emphasizing the rapid outcomes and the convenience of the minimally invasive nature of the treatment.
The procedure works by destroying ghrelin-producing cells in the stomach, shrinking its capacity and consequently reducing food cravings. Obaidy now weighs 70kg and has regained her energy, confidence, and zest for life. She highlighted that the treatment has been particularly beneficial for women, as it avoids the need for visible scars.
The obesity epidemic, particularly among working-age adults, has driven the demand for innovative weight loss solutions. Dr Mohamed Abdelhafez, a consultant in gastroenterology at Medcare Royal Specialty Hospital in Dubai, explained that the Moviva procedure addresses biological drivers of weight gain, promoting sustainable lifestyle changes without the risks associated with surgery.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
