The Albert Schweitzer Hospital recently hosted a large-scale preventative health session for approximately 150 students from three primary schools within the Nestas Scholengroep. Medical specialists, including pediatricians and dietitians, engaged students from groups 7 and 8 to identify how daily habits—such as vaping, screen-time snacking, and high-volume headphone use—impact long-term health.
The students of De Griffioen, Geert Groote, and Pius 10 attended the session at the hospital’s Dordtwijk location. Through interactive tools such as voting rounds, video clips, and targeted questions, the medical team confronted the students with the daily choices they make without always being aware of the consequences. According to board chair Nicole Stolk, the program is centered on one primary goal: preventing these children from ending up in the hospital as patients in the future.
Addressing the Health Risks of Vaping
Pediatrician Mariëlle Dekker and pediatric resident Magali Remarque cautioned students against the use of vapes, which are often perceived by youth as harmless alternatives to traditional smoking. The medical team highlighted that vapes contain nicotine and various harmful substances that reach the deepest parts of the lungs when inhaled.
The physicians noted that the heating process can release small metal particles, which pose a risk to respiratory health. Because the human brain continues to develop until approximately age 25, the presence of nicotine can increase the risk of dependency.
Screen Distractions Increase Risk of Obesity
Dietitian Dewika Atwaroe addressed the impact of sedentary eating habits, specifically the trend of consuming meals while using screens. According to Atwaroe, these distractions often prevent the brain from registering satiety signals, leading to unintentional overeating and an increased risk of obesity over time. The hospital recommends eating meals at a table without the presence of screens to foster more conscious eating.
The medical team also advised students to allow at least 30 minutes of rest after a main meal before engaging in intensive physical activity. Digestion requires energy and blood flow; exercising immediately after eating can trigger nausea, bloating, abdominal pain, or vomiting.
Energy Drinks Contain High Caffeine Levels
The session included an interactive quiz regarding the consumption of energy drinks and sugary beverages. Atwaroe explained that many energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, which stimulates the nervous system.
During the presentation, students were surprised to learn that several fruit juices and children’s drinks marketed as healthy contain high levels of sugar. The medical specialists identified water, sugar-free alternatives, and tea without sugar as the preferred options for hydration.
Preventing Permanent Hearing Loss
KNO-physician Cathelijne van Wettum warned students about the risks of permanent hearing damage caused by the frequent use of headphones and exposure to loud environments like concerts or festivals.
Van Wettum emphasized that once these cells are damaged by prolonged or excessively loud noise, they do not recover. This damage can lead to hearing loss or tinnitus, a condition characterized by a persistent ringing, whistling or buzzing sound.
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Can Hearing Damage Be Reversed?
Can hearing damage caused by loud music be reversed?
No. According to KNO-physician Cathelijne van Wettum, the hair cells in the inner ear that are destroyed by loud noise do not recover, making hearing loss or conditions like tinnitus often permanent.
Is it safe to drink sugar-free soda instead of water?
While dietitian Dewika Atwaroe noted that water remains the best choice for hydration, she indicated that sugar-free alternatives are a better option than those containing high amounts of sugar.
Why does the hospital advise against eating while using a screen?
Eating while distracted by a screen makes it harder for the body to recognize feelings of fullness. This lack of awareness can lead to overeating, which, if repeated as a daily habit, increases the risk of developing obesity.
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