Schools in the UAE are advising students to avoid carrying backpacks that exceed 20 percent of their body weight, following directives from the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). As students prepare to return to school on August 26 after a nearly two-month summer break, many schools across the country are emphasizing the use of lightweight bags and are even setting maximum weight limits based on students’ grade levels.
This initiative is being highlighted as concerns grow about the impact of heavy backpacks on children’s health. Doctors have observed that carrying excessive weight can cause students to adopt a forward-leaning posture to compensate, which can lead to chronic back pain and other postural problems. Research shows that issues often arise when students carry backpacks that exceed 20 percent of their body weight.
Dr. Mujeeb Muhammad Shaik, Clinical Assistant Professor and Consultant in Orthopaedic Surgery at Thumbay University Hospital explained the risks, stating, “Heavy backpacks can lead to increased fatigue, which can negatively affect a child’s ability to concentrate in school. We frequently see kids, both teenagers and younger children, who come in with back pain that seems to come and go.”
Healthcare professionals are stressing the importance of educating children on the proper way to wear and pack their backpacks to ensure even weight distribution and minimize strain. Medics also recommend encouraging students to use lockers or desks to store heavy books when they are not needed, helping to reduce the load they carry on their shoulders throughout the day.
