The initiative, organized by INSA's Department of Food and Nutrition (DAN) as a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre, aims to foster a joint reflection on global nutrition challenges, with a particular focus on multiple forms of malnutrition and the approach to childhood obesity.
The event transcends scientific debate, positioning itself as a meeting of high political relevance with the participation of organizations such as the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), WHO, the World Obesity Federation (WOF), the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO), and UNICEF, among other governmental and non-governmental entities.
Discussions will address the persistence of malnutrition in certain contexts, contrasted with the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity, highlighting the need for integrated approaches and international cooperation to promote healthier food systems and improve population nutritional status.
According to the program, the conference is held in collaboration with the WHO Regional Office for Europe and will feature the presence of Ana Povo, Secretary of State for Health, at the opening ceremony. The first day will focus on the global challenge of childhood obesity and the contribution of WHO Collaborating Centres to child health, including experiences in the Lusophone space regarding breastfeeding.
On the second day, João Breda, Head of the WHO Athens office, will present evidence on childhood obesity, followed by a panel on global nutrition and the 40th anniversary of the Ottawa Charter. The closing session will include a debate on governmental action in Portugal and worldwide regarding childhood obesity.
INSA has been a WHO Collaborating Centre for Child Nutrition and Obesity since July 2015, contributing to surveillance, prevention, organization of technical-scientific events, and monitoring of food intake.
