March 4 — World Obesity Day

04 March

According to the World Health Organization’s European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI), 27.7% of 7–8-year-old children in Armenia are overweight, and 12.6% are obese. Among them, nearly 30% of boys and 25% of girls fall into these categories.

Similar figures are reflected in Armenia’s Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey:

• 31% of 11-year-old boys and 17% of girls

• 27% of 13-year-old boys and 15% of girls

• 25% of 15-year-old boys and 12% of girls
  are either overweight or obese.

This research is conducted by the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health of Arabkir Medical Center, which was designated a WHO Collaborating Center in 2024.

Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial condition caused by excessive fat accumulation, leading to serious health risks.

To help prevent overweight and obesity, it is important to:

• Limit screen time (phones, computers, TVs)

• Be physically active for at least 1 hour daily

• Cut down on sweets

• Eat meals regularly

• Stay informed and avoid foods high in sugar, salt, and fat

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule

• Visit your doctor regularly