Department of Medical Biochemical Analysis Students Conduct a Health Awareness Seminar at Nahrini Kachan School
On Thursday, a group of second-year students from the Department of Medical Biochemical Analysis at Cihan University–Erbil conducted a field visit to Nahrini Kachan School under the supervision of Laboratory Assistant Dunya Abdulqadir Asaad. During the visit, the students delivered a health awareness seminar addressing important topics related to healthy lifestyles and the prevention of harmful health-related behaviours.
Opening of the Activity and Welcoming the Delegation
Upon arrival, the student delegation was warmly received by Josephine Estephan Mansour, the school principal. The students then began presenting the seminar topics, sharing practical health information and guidance to raise awareness among school students about the importance of adopting healthy daily habits.
Healthy Sleep and Its Effects on Growth and Learning
In the first session, Maria Adel Ibrahim presented a topic on healthy sleep. The presentation highlighted the importance of sufficient and regular sleep for children and school students, including its role in physical growth, brain recovery, memory, and concentration. The importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and limiting the prolonged use of electronic devices before bedtime was also emphasized to promote better sleep quality and academic performance.
Healthy Food and Preparing Nutritious School Lunch Boxes
In another session, Sidra Marouf Jamil discussed healthy food and lunch boxes. The presentation emphasized the importance of balanced and varied meals containing fruits, vegetables, protein sources, and whole grains to provide the energy and nutrients needed by the body and brain. It also highlighted the value of preparing nutritious school lunches and limiting foods and drinks high in sugar, as well as those with low nutritional value, to support students’ health, concentration, and learning.
Avoiding Energy Drinks and Protecting Health
In the third session, Sidra Mohammed Hamzawi presented a topic on avoiding energy drinks. The presentation addressed the potential adverse health effects of energy drinks, particularly among children and adolescents. It explained that excessive caffeine intake may contribute to sleep disturbances, an increased heart rate, anxiety, and restlessness. The importance of choosing water and other appropriate beverages to maintain hydration and support overall health was also highlighted.
Avoiding Smoking and E-Cigarette Use
In the fourth session, Jawhara Ghazi Hamad presented a topic on avoiding smoking and e-cigarette use. The presentation highlighted the health risks associated with smoking and the use of electronic cigarettes, explaining that many of these products contain nicotine and harmful substances that can lead to nicotine dependence and negatively affect the respiratory system and overall health. The importance of avoiding these behaviours, particularly during adolescence and young adulthood, was emphasized, encouraging students to make healthier choices to protect their long-term well-being.
Seminar Conclusion and Interactive Discussion
The seminar concluded with an interactive discussion during which the school students asked questions and shared their comments on the health topics presented. The university students responded to their questions and provided further explanations. At the end of the activity, Josephine Estephan Mansour, the school principal, expressed her appreciation and thanks to the Cihan University–Erbil delegation for conducting this educational health awareness initiative.
