CHILD HEALTH AND WELLBEING

“Children […] must be given a stable environment in which to thrive, including good health and nutrition, protection from threats and access to opportunities to learn and grow. Investing in children is one of the most important things a society can do to build a better future. “(WHO, 2022)

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have a long-lasting and negative impact on children's development and health. Consequently, significant weight gain has been observed among adolescents. Physical distancing, virtual schooling, increased screen-time, and less physical activity have all contributed to unhealthier lives. Moreover, the pandemic has accelerated and exacerbated many of the pre-existing racial and socioeconomic health disparities.

It is also known that mental disabilities, developmental delays and disabilities, injuries and non-communicable diseases – including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, preventable cancer and chronic respiratory diseases – pose a threat to children and adolescents worldwide (UNESCO, 2021).

Successful health promotion interventions for children and adolescents aiming at increasing their physical activity, enabling better food choices and healthy nutrition, strengthening their mental health, and overall healthy behaviours have the potential to influence health and well-being sustainably in the life-course. Key strategies are needed to implement physical activity, healthy diet and behaviour programs in a variety of daily life settings. Digital solutions for the families could play a key role today.

The 2nd interdisciplinary Summit "Future of Health - Child Health and Wellbeing" addresses these challenges and focuses on the fundamental changes that are imperative for sustainable child and adolescent health.

 Topics:

• 12th October 2022: NCDs in childhood and the role of covid-19       
• 13th October 2022: Perspectives of prevention
• 14th October 2022: Health behavior

Learn from leading international experts who shed light on child and adolescent health from different perspectives and identify future challenges. Join the discussion and help to improve the long-term health and wellbeing of children and adolescents.