Nutrition characteristics and morbidity of adolescents (15-17 years) of Kyrgyz Republic

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we analyzed the nutrition status and morbidity of adolescents. Methods:The data for the current study were obtained from the database of National statistical committee of Kyrgyz Republic for the period of 2009-2014 on nutritional and energy value of nutrition of urban and rural population living in conditions of high-, middle-and low-altitudes. We compared obtained data with current recommended norms of consumption for food ingredients, energy and food products.Results: Among adolescents of Kyrgyz Republic, residing especially in rural and high-altitude regions, there is an excessive consumption of fat and carbohydrates, and reduced consumption of protein. There is an increasing trend in prevalence of cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and endocrine disorders, as well as malignancy for the period 2010-2014. Conclusion:The nutrition of adolescents is unbalanced and unhealthy, with diet composed mostly of carbohydrates and fat, lacking proteins and fruit and vegetables, accompanied by increased trend of morbidity, especially in rural and high-altitude regions. There is a need for interventions directed to both decrease poverty levels and increase awareness of healthy nutrition among adolescents and their families.