Childhood Overweight and Obesity Survey: An Overlooked Public Health Issue

Abstract Introduction: Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions in Europe, with Greece ranking among the top three countries for prevalence. The 6th Health Administrative Region (ADM) of Greece reports the highest childhood obesity rates nationally (18.8%), however, comprehensive local-level data using standardized methodology are lacking. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between Novermber 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. Results: 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. Conclusion: Survey findings provide essential baseline data for an integrated surveillance protocol within existing healthcare infrastructure, facilitating future longitudinal monitoring across this diverse administrative region.