THE ROLE OF THE PHARMACIST PROFESSIONAL IN THE CONTEXT OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY

Abstract

Childhood obesity, a growing global challenge, transcends aesthetic concerns, representing a complex public health problem in the 21st century. This article carries out a comprehensive qualitative literature review, examining the role of the pharmacist together with other health professionals in the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity. This study is based on analysis of academic publications from 2020 to 2023 (Google Scholar), with one notable exception in the Ministry of Health's 2019 "Childhood Obesity Atlas." The rationale for this research lies in the urgency of addressing childhood obesity , a general public health problem. It is in this scenario that the pharmaceutical professional emerges as an essential competence in the fight against childhood obesity, playing a crucial role in guiding nutritional education, encouraging healthy habits, in accordance with interdisciplinary collaboration with nutritionists and physical educators, in the creation of health plans. comprehensive treatments together with mental health professionals, addressing the emotional implications of this problem. Multi-professional collaboration emerges as a solid basis for effective approaches, highlighting the need to invest in the continuous training of these specialists to prevent and treat childhood obesity in a holistic way, ensuring improvement and quality of life for children and providing a promising and healthier future for children. future generations.