Análise da evolução dos marcadores de consumo alimentar e do perfil nutricional de escolares residentes no estado de Goiás, no período compreendido entre 2015 e 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Childhood obesity is a growing public health problem, associated with the high consumption of ultra-processed foods. Monitoring the nutritional status of children, especially at school age, is a fundamental action for the prevention of childhood obesity. Objective: to analyze the evolution of food consumption markers and the nutritional profile of schoolchildren living in Goiás. Methods: this is a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out based on publicly available reports on the nutritional status and food consumption of schoolchildren (5 to <10 years old) in the period between 2015 and 2023, made available by the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System. Results: the prevalence of eutrophy was on average 65%, there was a constancy in the prevalence of overweight and obesity, with an increase in the period 2020-2021, which probably reflects the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The consumption of ultra-processed foods was high (87%), while among the promoting foods, the consumption of beans and fruits was on average 83% and 74% respectively, however, they showed significant drops in 2021. Conclusion: given the high prevalence of excess weight and the consumption of ultra-processed foods, it is essential to strengthen public policies with a view to promoting healthy eating, especially in the school environment.