Reducing Childhood Obesity: WHO’s Policy Dialogues in Southern Europe

WHO/Europe held a meeting focused on reducing childhood obesity in Southern Europe. Representatives from Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, San Marino, Slovenia, Spain, and Türkiye participated. The Athens Office organized the policy dialogues on June 18-19 in partnership with the Special Initiative on Noncommunicable Diseases and the Greek Ministry of Health.

During the meeting, experts discussed policy solutions to address overweight and obesity, which can lead to serious health conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Currently, 59% of adults in the WHO European Region have overweight or obesity, the highest rate outside the Americas. Alarmingly, 1 in 3 children in the region are also affected.

Dr. Kremlin Wickramasinghe highlighted the high rates of childhood obesity in Southern Europe. In some areas, nearly half of boys are classified as overweight or obese, raising their risk of future health problems. Obesity is a leading cause of death, contributing to 1.2 million annual deaths in the region.

Dr. Eirini Agapidaki, Greece’s Alternate Minister of Health, noted that Greece faces a serious childhood obesity crisis. The country ranks high in obesity rates among children under five, children aged 5 to 9, and adolescents aged 10 to 19. The Greek Minister of Health, Mr. Adonis Georgiadis, emphasized the need to reevaluate the country’s approach to nutrition.

Greece launched a two-year national program to combat childhood obesity, starting with a pilot in 59 schools. The program aims to promote physical activity, nutrition, and reduce food waste. Dr. João Breda of the Athens Office stated that WHO/Europe aims to improve care for individuals with overweight and obesity.

The Athens meeting helped stakeholders identify and discuss policies to tackle obesity. The discussions will contribute to the Athens statement, which will set priority action areas. Dr. Wickramasinghe emphasized the need for a combined approach that includes regulating unhealthy food products, promoting physical activity, and creating a healthier environment.

This meeting marks a vital step in addressing a significant public health issue. The initiative aims to encourage collaboration among countries in Southern Europe to combat obesity effectively.