YEREVAN (JAM News) — A groundbreaking study has revealed that Armenia stands out with the highest rate of sweet consumption among children, positioning the nation as the leading consumer of sugary treats among 15-year-olds. This significant finding comes in light of a comprehensive examination conducted across Armenia and 50 other countries.
“64% of girls and 56% of boys in this age group consume sweets multiple times a day. This alarming statistic is a truly concerning indicator of dietary habits that could have serious implications for their health,” stated Marina Melkumova, a pediatrician at the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health, emphasizing the urgency of this issue.
The World Health Organization, in collaboration with Armenia’s Ministries of Health and Education, along with the Arabkir Medical Center, spearheaded this extensive study focusing on school-aged children. The findings, unveiled to journalists earlier in November, included stark warnings regarding the potential long-term health consequences associated with such high levels of sugar intake.
This crucial research, which examines the behaviors of school-aged children that may significantly influence their health outcomes, is conducted every four years in 51 countries worldwide. In the most recent survey conducted in Armenia, over 4,300 children aged 11 through 17 were closely observed, providing a comprehensive overview of dietary trends.
Melkumova expressed alarm over the findings, highlighting that children’s diets are increasingly unbalanced, with professionals particularly concerned about adolescents’ excessive consumption of sweets and sugary sodas. The data points to a growing trend that could lead to future health challenges.
“Among 15-year-olds, 32 percent of boys and 22 percent of girls drink sugary carbonated drinks daily, a habit that raises significant health concerns,” Melkumova reported, urging for immediate attention to be given to these troubling dietary patterns.
What are the potential long-term health effects of high sugary treat consumption in children?
**Interview with Marina Melkumova, Pediatrician at the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Melkumova. Your recent research reveals alarming rates of sugary treat consumption among Armenian children. Can you elaborate on what this means for their health?
**Melkumova:** Thank you for having me. The study illustrates a concerning trend: 64% of girls and 56% of boys aged 15 consume sweets multiple times a day. This excessive sugar intake poses serious risks, including obesity, diabetes, and dental issues, which can have long-term implications for their health.
**Editor:** With the overwhelming consumption of sweets, what do you believe parents and guardians should do to address this issue?
**Melkumova:** Parents need to be more vigilant about their children’s diets. Encouraging healthier eating habits, setting limits on sugary snacks, and providing nutritious alternatives are essential steps. This is not just a parental issue; it also requires school involvement and community support.
**Editor:** The findings indicate a rise in sugary drinks among adolescents. Would you suggest any policy changes that could help combat this trend?
**Melkumova:** Absolutely. Implementing stricter regulations on the marketing of sugary products to children and promoting health education in schools can be very effective. Additionally, making nutritious foods more accessible and affordable could drive positive change.
**Editor:** Given these alarming statistics, how do you suggest we engage the public in a conversation about sugary consumption?
**Melkumova:** It’s vital that we are open and honest about these findings. Engaging families, schools, and health organizations in discussions through community forums could raise awareness. We could also leverage social media to share educational content and empower parents with tools to foster healthier eating habits.
**Editor:** what kind of debate do you envision emerging from this study’s findings among parents and policymakers?
**Melkumova:** I anticipate a significant debate around balancing children’s freedom of choice with public health concerns. Some may argue that restricting sugary products infringes on personal freedoms, while others will advocate for proactive measures to protect children’s health. This discourse is essential in shaping a public health strategy that respects individual choices while prioritizing the health of future generations.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Melkumova. This research surely raises a pressing issue that merits discussion. Readers, how do you feel about the consumption of sugars among children? Should there be stricter regulations on sugary treats, or should personal choice prevail? Share your thoughts!
