THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION IN PREVENTING CHRONIC DISEASES IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Given the increase in non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) among children and adolescents, especially obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and arterial hypertension, this study addresses the problem that inadequate eating habits, sedentary behavior, and limited coordination among schools, families, and health services intensify risk factors from childhood onward. The general objective was to analyze the contribution of health education to NCD prevention in the Brazilian child and adolescent population. A qualitative and descriptive bibliographic review was conducted using SciELO, BVS, and PubMed/MEDLINE databases, as well as official documents, prioritizing publications from 2014 to 2026 on health education, childhood obesity, nutrition, physical activity, and school-based prevention. The results indicated that continuous, interdisciplinary interventions linked to the School Health Program promote health literacy, improve food choices, encourage physical activity, and support early identification of risk factors. It is concluded that preventive education, when integrated with family participation and public policies, reduces vulnerability to NCDs and promotes quality of life.