The healthcare industry in Qatar is characterized by sophisticated medical facilities and systems in both public and private sectors. The Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is the primary public health care provider and operates five hospitals specializing in different aspects of human health. The average life expectancy in Qatar is about 78 years. Despite these statistics and the sophisticated health system which comprises of some of the most advanced machinery and facilities in the world today, the public health of Qatar is characterized by numerous disorders and illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, genetic disorders, etc. The rise of such ailments in the Qatari society has been attributed to the advent of western influences and most particularly junk food, which has increasingly become popular among the populace, particularly the urban youth.
