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Turkey's Public BMI Campaign Draws Privacy and Dignity Concerns

Amid a growing obesity crisis, the Turkish government’s public weigh-ins face criticism over unclear consent and data protection practices.

Overview

  • The Turkish Health Ministry's campaign, running from May 10 to July 10, aims to measure the BMI of 10 million citizens in public spaces across 81 provinces.
  • Individuals with a BMI of 25 or higher are referred to health centers for dietary advice and weight-loss guidance.
  • Critics argue the public weigh-ins are humiliating and raise concerns about the voluntariness of participation and the handling of personal health data.
  • Social media backlash has intensified, with many citizens expressing feelings of discrimination and fears of governmental overreach.
  • The Health Ministry has yet to clarify consent procedures or how participants' health data will be protected, fueling further public debate.