AZE.US
Health specialists say imbalanced diets and spending priorities may be affecting children’s growth and long-term well-being.
Health professionals in Azerbaijan are raising concerns over childhood nutrition as global data show increasing rates of obesity among school-aged children.
According to the World Health Organization, approximately one in ten school-age children worldwide was living with obesity in 2025, with overweight prevalence surpassing the number of underweight children. Specialists note that both excess weight and nutrient deficiencies remain significant risks during childhood.
Local medical experts say many Azerbaijani schoolchildren follow demanding daily schedules that include classes, tutoring and extracurricular activities, often without structured meal routines. As a result, some rely on low-cost, processed foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates.
Endocrinologists warn that prolonged consumption of such foods can contribute to iron and vitamin deficiencies, anemia, delayed growth and increased risk of insulin resistance. They note that unhealthy dietary habits formed between ages five and fourteen may persist into adulthood and raise the likelihood of metabolic disorders later in life.
Some policymakers have also highlighted the issue. Lawmaker Gudrat Hasanguliyev has pointed to growth indicators among children and stressed the importance of improving access to balanced nutrition in schools. Proposals to expand school-based healthy meal programs have been discussed in parliament.
Experts say international examples – including Finland, Sweden and Japan – demonstrate that structured, balanced school meal systems can play a significant role in reducing obesity and nutritional deficiencies.
They emphasize that while academic achievement is a priority for many families, child development depends equally on physical health, nutrition and long-term well-being.