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About Obesity
The team at Ampop.am explored the topic of overweight and obesity. Marina Melkumova, the coordinator of Adolescent Health Program, spoke about the findings of research conducted by the Institute of Child and Adolescent Health at Arabkir Medical Center.
March 4 — World Obesity Day
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
The Impact of Energy Drinks on the Health of Children and Adolescents
Marina Melkumova, a pediatrician and adolescent medicine specialist at Arabkir Medical Center, presented the effects of energy drinks on the health of children and adolescents.   Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants that affect metabolism, and they should not be included in children’s diets. The harmful effects of energy drinks include: Increased blood pressure Elevated heart rate Feelings of anxiety and restlessness Sleep disturbances and insomnia Dehydration In extreme cases, heart rhythm disturbances, acute kidney failure, and convulsions. In Armenia, as in many parts of the world, the number of adolescents—and even children—consuming energy drinks is rising each year. According to the Health Behavior in School-Age Children Survey (2022), 40% of adolescents in Armenia consume energy drinks weekly. A video on this topic will be released soon.
Electrical Cigarettes Among Armenian Teenagers
This article provides insights into the use of e-cigarettes among Armenian teenagers. The "News" segment from the public TV company highlights research conducted by the "Arabkir" Medical Center-Institute of Child and Adolescent Health, in collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Education, as well as the World Health Organization.
Healthy lifestyle courses in schools
  Marina Melkumova, pediatrician and Adolescent Health Program Coordinator at “Arabkir” MC-ICAH, recently participated in a press conference hosted by “Armenpress” news agency. The conference focused on the activities of healthy lifestyle courses in schools, their content, and expected outcomes.  During the conference, Dr. Melkumova highlighted that the course topics aim to promote personal development, first aid skills, and the ability to avoid harmful effects. For more details, please follow the link.