During the Covid-19 pandemic, the majority of families in 17 European countries, including Portugal, have experienced an overall decline in the well-being of their children (ages 6 to 10), with sadness and loneliness affecting one in five children. The World Health Organization study, coordinated by the National Institute of Health Dutor Ricardo Jorge, concludes.
For parents, their children’s ability to have fun with friends was impaired in 42% of cases, with 27% reporting that there was a loss in the ability to “enjoy leisure activities” or have “me time” (19%).
In Portugal, regarding nutrition, among 5,139 children (aged 6 to 8 years), families reported an increase in consumption of sweets (19.4%) and savory snacks (13.8%). Consumption of fruits (11.9%) and vegetables (7.1%) increased, especially in the Algarve. The study also shows that almost half of children spend more time in front of the TV or computer. The situation of families also worsened (11.4%) reaching the end of the month without serious financial problems.
Between 2020 and 2022, 55.3% of Portuguese children tested positive for Covid-19 and were in isolation.
Author: Rita F. Batista
Source: CM Jornal
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