Dear Editor,

Jamaica has a high death rate caused by non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which accounts for around 80 per cent of total deaths annually.

NCDs are avoidable; meaning, the death toll can be significantly reduced in the long run with deliberate effort.

One of the most practical approaches Jamaica can take to address the NCD problem is to start with nutrition education for children. Nutritional literacy is crucial for children, as it reduces the prevalence of NCDs. Poor dietary habits, such as consuming excessive processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, are significant contributors to the increase in NCD cases among children and adults alike.

I recently conducted a study focusing on the impact of nutritional literacy on healthy dietary practices among primary school students in Jamaica. The study offered critical insights into the importance of nutrition education. One key finding was that students obtain most of their information about food and nutrition from various aspects of school life, including classroom lessons, teachers, books, and library resources.

However, the study also found that while students had a basic understanding of how their eating habits could affect their health, many were unable to use nutrition information to make informed dietary choices. This was mainly due to their lack of knowledge about the link between eating and the development of NCDs. The results of the study suggest a significant need for comprehensive nutrition education in primary schools to equip students with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Nutritional education plays a vital role in reducing the prevalence of NCDs among students. It equips them with the knowledge and skills required to make informed choices about their food habits, which can help prevent obesity and other NCDs. Therefore, schools should prioritise developing curricula emphasising healthy eating habits and encouraging students to make prudent decisions. Schools can significantly reduce NCD incidence and promote a healthier society by creating an environment that fosters healthy eating habits and providing students with the necessary knowledge and skills. Hence, nutritional literacy should be an integral part of the education process.

As the Ministry of Education makes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) a priority in schools, it’s important to acknowledge the significance of nutritional literacy.

Deliberate community partnerships can significantly provide additional resources and support for nutrition education programmes in schools. Partnerships with local farms, food industries, and health organisations offer hands-on experience and workshops for students. This will help them develop skills and knowledge to make informed choices about their diet and health.

STEM-based nutritional literacy partnerships can reduce childhood obesity and promote healthy habits in children.

Lorain Senior

lorain_senior@hotmail.com