A research aimed at the comprehensive study of the food habits of the population is being conducted in the Republic of Uzbekistan. This was reported by Upl.uz.
This project serves to develop a new strategy in the field of public health strengthening. Launched in collaboration with the International ISCAD Center and the Delivery Unit of the Strategic Reforms Agency, the project covers the entire territory of the country and aims to create a scientific basis for future state programs.
The relevance of this initiative has been confirmed by previous monitoring results. The STEPS studies conducted by the World Health Organization in 2014 and 2019 showed that there are negative trends in the diet of the population of Uzbekistan.
For example, the share of citizens consuming salt above the norm increased from 15.6 percent to 36.6 percent. At the same time, 67.2 percent of respondents did not include the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables in their daily diet.
Experts believe that these factors are directly related to the increase in cases of overweight and arterial hypertension. In such a situation, there is a need for a systematic transition to a healthy and balanced nutrition model.
The internationally recognized KAP Survey methodology is being used for data collection. This method allows for the assessment of the population's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding healthy nutrition.
Currently, the field stage covers more than 13,000 households, ensuring representativeness. The research program includes five main areas.
First, knowledge and practical skills in nutrition are gathered. Second, the height, weight, and body mass index of participants are measured, which helps assess their physical condition.
The third area focuses on biochemical analysis of blood, determining blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as the balance of trace elements. The fourth and fifth areas study the clinical health status, as well as personal and family medical history and social-cultural conditions.
This comprehensive approach allows for not only identifying the problem but also deeply analyzing its roots. The collected data will help identify dietary habits, the level of awareness of healthy eating rules among the population, and the distribution of issues related to overweight and hunger among social groups.
As a result, a number of strategic initiatives will be developed based on the collected data. These include creating national programs aimed at preventing non-communicable diseases and launching large-scale information campaigns.
Additionally, the research results will serve as a basis for improving legislation regulating the quality and labeling of food products. Such evidence-based approaches have been accepted as effective practices in global health policy, enabling rapid responses to existing problems and achieving long-term positive changes.
Bread is considered sacred in traditional Uzbek culture. It is never placed on the ground or faced down, and old bread is not thrown away but given to animals.
This cultural value may influence food habits and should be taken into account in regional information campaigns
