Childhood overweight and obesity survey: an overlooked public health issue

Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions in Europe, with Greece reporting one of the highest prevalence rates from national surveys, but local disparities are lacking. This study addresses a critical gap by providing local-level data from Greece's 6th Health Administrative Region (ADM), an area with the nation's highest reported childhood obesity rates, using a standardized methodology.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted between November 2024 and January 2025 across healthcare facilities in the region of 6th Health ADM to estimate children's weight status. Trained healthcare professionals collected standardized anthropometric measurements from 2,730 children (3-16 years). Body weight status was classified using International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) standards. Data were analyzed by region, age group, sex, and degree of urbanization using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and logistic regression.

Overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 21.6% and 7.0%, respectively, with significant regional and sex variations. The highest prevalence was found in Western Greece (24.6%), while Peloponnese had the highest obesity rates (9.1%). Boys demonstrated higher rates in both weight categories. A significant age-related obesity gradient was observed, increasing from 3.4% in toddlers to 8.5% in adolescents (p = 0.021). No significant differences were found by degree of urbanization.

This survey identified high-risk geographic areas and demographic groups, providing essential data to guide targeted public health interventions and shape regional policy. These baseline data are important for an integrated surveillance protocol to monitor future trends and evaluate the effectiveness of public health interventions.