More than one-third of Greek children aged 7 to 9 are overweight or obese, according to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) sixth European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI) report for 2022–2024. While the figures show a slight improvement compared to previous years, Greece continues to report some of the highest rates in Europe.
The study found that 37% of Greek children exceed the normal weight range, with 18% classified as obese. Yet, only 18% of parents believe their child is overweight, suggesting a significant gap in parental awareness.
The WHO warns that excess weight in childhood can lead to serious health problems, including diabetes and heart disease later in life, as well as lower school performance and poorer mental well-being.
Despite some progress—such as reduced sugary drink consumption and one of the lowest soda intake rates among 31 countries—Greece still faces challenges in nutrition. Only 16% of Greek children eat vegetables daily, the lowest rate recorded. Meanwhile, unhealthy eating habits remain widespread, with frequent consumption of sweets and snacks.
On a positive note, Greece recorded a 6% drop in overweight rates among girls since the previous COSI phase, though boys remain significantly more affected.
The WHO report also highlights lifestyle trends across Europe. Around 42% of children spend more than two hours daily on screens during weekdays, and the percentage rises to 78% on weekends. Most children, however, get adequate sleep and engage in at least one hour of active play daily.
The COSI network, launched in 2007, now spans 48 countries and monitors nearly half a million children across Europe. It aims to provide governments with data to design effective strategies against childhood obesity — a public health challenge that remains especially pressing in southern Europe, including Greece.
