{
  "id": 2949882,
  "title": "MoPH urges families to choose ‘ideal’ backpacks",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/moph-urges-families-to-choose-ideal-backpacks",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-24T05:29:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Peninsula Qatar",
    "slug": "the-peninsula-qatar",
    "url": "https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/24/08/2026/moph-urges-families-to-choose-ideal-backpacks"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Doha, Qatar - As the new academic year approaches, the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar has released guidance on selecting and using school backpacks to protect children's posture and prevent back and shoulder issues. An unsuitable backpack or improper use can lead to health problems such as back pain, hunchback, and spinal curvature.\n\nThe ministry's 'Ideal School Backpack' guide suggests the bag should be made of durable, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean material, lightweight, and weigh no more than 10 to 15 percent of the student's body weight. It should have a thick, padded back support, wide, padded shoulder straps, and a waist belt to evenly distribute the weight.\n\nBackpacks with multiple compartments help maintain balance and make items easier to access. The backpack should extend from just below the neck to the top of the lower back curve when worn. For backpacks with wheels, large wheels and an adjustable handle suited to the student's height are recommended.\n\nStudents should distribute their supplies evenly, placing heavier items closest to the center and bottom of the bag. The waist strap should support good posture, and carrying the backpack on one shoulder should be avoided. The ministry also advises students to carry only necessary items for the day and use the waist strap to maintain good posture.\n\nParents are encouraged to help children choose an age and weight-appropriate bag, adjust shoulder straps correctly, and check contents according to the daily school timetable. They should also teach children to lift backpacks safely by bending their knees and keeping their backs straight. If uneven shoulders, a hunched back, difficulty walking, or back pain are noticed, medical attention should be sought.",
  "summary": "<p>Doha, Qatar: As the new academic year approaches, the Ministry of Public Health yesterday issued guidance on choosing and using school backpacks, highlighting the importance of selecting a bag that supports children’s posture and protects them from back and shoulder problems.</p> <p>The ministry said an unsuitable backpack, or incorrect use of one, could expose students to a range of health…",
  "key_points": [
    "Ministry of Public Health issues backpack guidelines for students.",
    "Ideal backpack should be lightweight (10-15% of body weight), padded, and have a waist belt.",
    "Parents encouraged to help children choose appropriate, properly adjusted backpacks."
  ],
  "editors_take": "The Ministry of Public Health's guidance on selecting and using school backpacks aims to empower parents and students to prevent posture and back problems by making informed choices about school gear.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}