Greece
- Overview
- Obesity prevalence
- Population breakdowns
- Drivers
- Comorbidities
- Health systems
- Actions
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National obesity risk *7.5/10This is a composite ‘obesity risk’ score (out of 10, the highest risk) based on obesity prevalence, rate of increase, likelihood of meeting the 2025 target, treatment indicator and childhood stunting levels.Childhood obesity risk *8/11This is a ‘risk score’ for each country’s likelihood of having or acquiring a major childhood obesity problem during the 2020s, taking account of current prevalence levels and risk for future obesity (based on stunting among infants, maternal obesity, maternal smoking, and breastfeeding rates).
* Based on estimated data. For more information see Publications
Obesity prevalence
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Drivers
Insufficient activity
Sugar consumption
Soft drink consumption
Confectionery consumption
Sweet/savoury snack consumption
Fruit consumption
Vegetable consumption
Processed meat consumption
Grains consumption
Depression
Anxiety
Roots of obesity »
Like all chronic diseases, the root causes/drivers of obesity are complex. Select here to view 'other' root causes/drivers.Comorbidities
Health systems
Obesity prevalence
Adults, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2013
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | 4574 |
| References: | Magriplis, E., Panagiotakos, D., Kyrou, I., Tsioufis, C., Mitsopoulou, A. V., Karageorgou, D., Dimakopoulos, I., Bakogianni, I., Chourdakis, M., Micha, R., Michas, G., Ntouroupi, T., Tsaniklidou, S. M., Argyri, K., & Zampelas, A. (2020). Presence of Hypertension Is Reduced by Mediterranean Diet Adherence in All Individuals with a More Pronounced Effect in the Obese: The Hellenic National Nutrition and Health Survey (HNNHS). Nutrients, 12(3), 853. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12030853 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2013-2016
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | 4822 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Touloumi, G., Karakosta, A., Kalpourtzi, N., Gavana, M., Vantarakis, A., Kantzanou, M., Hajichristodoulou, C., Chlouverakis, G., Trypsianis, G., Voulgari, P. V., Alamanos, Y., Makrilakis, K., Liatis, S., Chatzipanagiotou, S., Stergiou, G., & EMENO study group (2020). High prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in adults living in Greece: the EMENO National Health Examination Survey. BMC public health, 20(1), 1665. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09757-4 |
| Notes: | Sample size: 2065 men and 2757 women |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2001-2003
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 18-79 |
| Sample size: | 915 |
| Area covered: | Regional |
| References: | Koukoulis GN, Sakka C, Katsaros F,Goutou M, Tsirona S, Tsiapali E, Piterou A, Stefanidis I, Stathakis N. High rates of obesity prevalence in adults living in Central Greece: data from the ARGOS Study. HORMONES 2010, 9(3):253-262 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 1994-1998
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 19-64 |
| Sample size: | 25773 |
| References: | Trichopolou A. Data from MONICA correspondence to WHO |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2015
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 4-17 |
| Sample size: | 336,014 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Tambalis KD, Psarra G and Sidossis LS. 2018. Current data in Greek children indicate decreasing trends of obesity in the transition from childhood to adolescence; results from the EYZHN (National Action for Children’s Health) program. J PREV MED HYG. 59: E40-E51 |
| Notes: | IOTF cut-offs used NB. Combined child data estimated. These estimates were calculated by weighting male and female survey results. Weighting based on World Bank Population % total female 2019 (https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL.FE.ZS - accessed 21.10.20)' |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2010
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 10-12 |
| Sample size: | 1091 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Brug J, van Stralen MM, te Velde SJ, Chinapaw MJM, De Bourdeaudhuij I, et al. (2012) Differences in Weight Status and Energy-Balance Related Behaviors among Schoolchildren across Europe: The ENERGY-Project. PLoS ONE 7(4): e34742. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0034742 |
| Notes: | IOTF International Cut Off |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2009-2013
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 6-9 |
| Sample size: | 10616 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Spinelli et al (2019). 'Childhood Severe Obesity in Europe', Obes Facts.12, pp. 244–258. (Data from COSI round 1-3) |
| Notes: | NOTE - this data is from COSI round II and III (2009- 2013) IOTF cut-offs used. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2005-2006
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 10-12 |
| Sample size: | 481 |
| Area covered: | Regional |
| References: | Yannis Manios, Peter D Angelopoulos, Georgia Kourlaba, Maria Kolotourou, Evangelia Grammatikaki etal. 2010. Prevalence of obesity and body mass index correlates in a representative sample of Cretan school children. International Journal of Pediatric Obesity. Early Online, 1 - 7. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2003
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 13-17 |
| Sample size: | 14459 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Tzotzas T, Kapantais E, Tziomalos K, Ioannidis I, Mortoglou A, Bakatselos S, Kaklamaanou M, Lanaras L & Kaklamanos I. 2008. Epidemiological survey for the prevelance of overweight and abdominal obesity in Greek adolescents. Obesity, 16, 1718 - 1722. |
| Notes: | IOTF International Cut Off |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2003-2004
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 6-11 |
| Sample size: | 4131 |
| Area covered: | Regional |
| References: | Papadimitriou A, Kounadi D, Konstantinidou M, Xepapadaki P and Nicolaidou P. Prevalence of Obesity in Elementary Schoolchildren Living in Northeast Attica, Greece. Obesity 2006;7:1113-1117 |
| Notes: | IOTF Cut off. Reference: Cole TJ, Bellizzi MC, Flegal KM, Dietz WH. Establishing a standard definition for child overweight and obesity worldwide: International survey. BMJ. 2000 May 6;320(7244):1240-3. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 1994
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 6-11 |
| Sample size: | 2298 |
| Area covered: | Regional |
| References: | Papadimitriou A, Kounadi D, Konstantinidou M, Xepapadaki P and Nicolaidou P. Prevalence of Obesity in Elementary Schoolchildren Living in Northeast Attica, Greece. Obesity 2006;7:1113-1117 |
| Notes: | IOTF Cut off. Reference: Cole TJ, Bellizzi MC, Flegal KM, Dietz WH. Establishing a standard definition for child overweight and obesity worldwide: International survey. BMJ. 2000 May 6;320(7244):1240-3. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Overweight/obesity by age and education
Men, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Overweight/obesity by education
Men, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | Total sample size in EU = 35100 (Age 18+) |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016) |
| Notes: | Less than primary, primary and lower secondary education (levels 0-2) Upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education (levels 3 and 4) Tertiary education (levels 5-8) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | Total sample size in EU = 35100 (Age 18+) |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016) |
| Notes: | Less than primary, primary and lower secondary education (levels 0-2) Upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education (levels 3 and 4) Tertiary education (levels 5-8) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Men, 2008
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015) |
| Notes: | Definitions are: levels 0-2 = pre-primary, primary and lower secondary education levels 3-4 = upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education levels 5-6 = first and second stage of tertiary education |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2008
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015) |
| Notes: | Definitions are: levels 0-2 = pre-primary, primary and lower secondary education levels 3-4 = upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education levels 5-6 = first and second stage of tertiary education |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2012
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 3-6 |
| Sample size: | 1229 |
| Area covered: | Subnational- Athens |
| References: | Manios, Y. et al. (2018). Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of overweight and obesity in a large Pan-European cohort of preschool children and their families: The ToyBox-study. Nutrition. 55-56, pp.1-7. |
| Notes: | IOTF International cut-offs used. Low Maternal education classed as <14 y of education. Medium/high Maternal education classed as >14 y of education. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2010
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 10-12 |
| Sample size: | 1091 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Brug J, van Stralen MM, te Velde SJ et al. Differences in Weight Status and Energy-Balance Related Behaviors among Schoolchildren across Europe: The ENERGY-Project. PLoS ONE 2012;7 (4) e34742 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 9-13 |
| Sample size: | n=729 |
| Area covered: | Urban region of Athens |
| References: | Moschonis, G., Tanagra, S., Vandorou, A., Kyriakou, A., Dede, V., Siatitsa, P.,... Manios, Y. (2010). Social, economic and demographic correlates of overweight and obesity in primary-school children: Preliminary data from the Healthy Growth Study. <i>Public Health Nutrition,</i> <i>13</i>(10A), 1693-1700. doi:10.1017/S1368980010002247 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of overweight and obesity by Paternal Education Level. Low (≤9 years of education), Medium (>9 and ≤14 years of education) and High (>14 years of education). IOTF BMI cut-offs used. Note small sample size. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 9-13 |
| Sample size: | n=729 |
| Area covered: | Urban region of Athens |
| References: | Moschonis, G., Tanagra, S., Vandorou, A., Kyriakou, A., Dede, V., Siatitsa, P.,... Manios, Y. (2010). Social, economic and demographic correlates of overweight and obesity in primary-school children: Preliminary data from the Healthy Growth Study. <i>Public Health Nutrition,</i> <i>13</i>(10A), 1693-1700. doi:10.1017/S1368980010002247 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of overweight and obesity by Maternal Education Level. Low (≤9 years of education), Medium (>9 and ≤14 years of education) and High (>14 years of education). IOTF BMI cut-offs used. Note small sample size. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Girls, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 9-13 |
| Sample size: | n=729 |
| Area covered: | Urban region of Athens |
| References: | Moschonis, G., Tanagra, S., Vandorou, A., Kyriakou, A., Dede, V., Siatitsa, P.,... Manios, Y. (2010). Social, economic and demographic correlates of overweight and obesity in primary-school children: Preliminary data from the Healthy Growth Study. <i>Public Health Nutrition,</i> <i>13</i>(10A), 1693-1700. doi:10.1017/S1368980010002247 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of overweight and obesity by Maternal Education Level. Low (≤9 years of education), Medium (>9 and ≤14 years of education) and High (>14 years of education). IOTF BMI cut-offs used. Note small sample size. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2003-2004
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 2374 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Manios et al. (2007) 'Prevalence of obesity in preschool Greek children, in relation to parental characteristics and region of residence', BMC Public Health, 7;178 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of overweight by educational level of the mother (years) IOTF BMI cut-offs used |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Overweight/obesity by age
Adults, 2003
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Sample size: | 17341 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Kapantais E, Tzotzas T, Ioannidis I, Mortoglou A, Bakatselos S, Kaklamanou M, Lanaras L, Kaklamanos I. First National Epidemiological Survey on the Prevalence of Obesity and Abdominal Fat Distribution in Greek Adults. Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism 2006;50:330-338 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2001-2002
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 3042 |
| Area covered: | Regional: Attica region |
| References: | Panagiotakos DB, Pitsavos C, Chrysohoou C et al. Epidemiology of overweight and obesity in a Greek adult population: the ATTICA Study. Obes Res. 2004 Dec;12(12):1914-20. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2015
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 336,014 |
| Area covered: | Subnational |
| References: | Tambalis KD, Psarra G and Sidossis LS. 2018. Current data in Greek children indicate decreasing trends of obesity in the transition from childhood to adolescence; results from the EYZHN (National Action for Children’s Health) program. J PREV MED HYG. 59: E40-E51 |
| Notes: | IOTF cut-offs used. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2012-2013
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 7yrs 2725 9yrs 2642 Both Genders |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION. (2018). WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative: overweight and obesity among 6–9-year-old children. Available: http://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/378865/COSI-3.pdf?ua=1. Last accessed [Accessed 28th Aug 2018]. |
| Notes: | WHO cut-offs used. |
| Cutoffs: | WHO |
Children, 2010-2012
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 37344 (in total of 12-19yr olds) |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Grammatikopoulou MG, Poulimeneas D, Gounitsioti IS, Gerothanasi K, Tsigga M, Kiranas E; ADONUT Study Group.Prevalence of simple and abdominal obesity in Greek adolescents: the ADONUT studyIOTF. Clin Obes. 2014 Dec;4(6):303-8. doi: 10.1111/cob.12070. Epub 2014 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2003
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 14456 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Tzotzas T, Kapantais E, Tziomalos K et al. Epidemiological Survey for the Prevalence of Overweigth and Abdomonial Obesity in Greek Adolescents. Obesity 2008;16:1718-1722 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 1990-1991
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 6448 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Georgiadis G, Nassis GP. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in a national representative sample of Greek children and adolescents. EJCN 2007;61:1072-1074 (individual year data provided via personal communication) |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Overweight/obesity by region
Men, 2001-2003
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 18-70 |
| Sample size: | 852 |
| Area covered: | 4 Provinces of Central Greece |
| References: | Koukoulis GN, Sakka C, Katsaros F et al. High rates of obesity prevalence in adults living in Central Greece: Data from the ARGOS Study. Hormones 2010;9(3):253-262 |
| Notes: | Please note small sample size - less than 1000 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2001-2003
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 18-70 |
| Sample size: | 852 |
| Area covered: | 4 Provinces of Central Greece |
| References: | Koukoulis GN, Sakka C, Katsaros F et al. High rates of obesity prevalence in adults living in Central Greece: Data from the ARGOS Study. Hormones 2010;9(3):253-262 |
| Notes: | Please note small sample size - less than 1000 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Boys, 2010-2012
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 13 |
| Sample size: | 4833 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Poulimeneas D, Grammatikopoulou MG, Dimitrakopoulos L, Kotsias E, Gerothanasi D, Kiranas ER, Tsigga M (2016) Regional differences in the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity among 13-year-old adolescents in Greece. Int J Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2016 Dec;3(4):153-161. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpam.2016.06.002. Epub 2016 Sep 6 |
| Notes: | International IOTF Cut off points |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Girls, 2010-2012
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 13 |
| Sample size: | 4833 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Poulimeneas D, Grammatikopoulou MG, Dimitrakopoulos L, Kotsias E, Gerothanasi D, Kiranas ER, Tsigga M (2016) Regional differences in the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity among 13-year-old adolescents in Greece. Int J Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2016 Dec;3(4):153-161. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpam.2016.06.002. Epub 2016 Sep 6 |
| Notes: | International IOTF Cut off points |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Overweight/obesity by age and region
Men, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1u&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1u&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Overweight/obesity by age and socio-economic group
Adults, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Men, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Overweight/obesity by socio-economic group
Men, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | Total sample number in EU: 35100 (Age 18+) |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | EUROSTAT Database: http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016) |
| Notes: | 1st Quintile (lowest income), 5th Quintile (highest income) Please note where data = zero, there were insufficient data. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2014
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | Total sample number in EU: 35100 (Age 18+) |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | EUROSTAT Database: http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016) |
| Notes: | 1st Quintile (lowest income), 5th Quintile (highest income) Please note where data = zero, there were insufficient data. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Men, 2008
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015) |
| Notes: | SES assessed by annual income. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2008
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015) |
| Notes: | SES assessed by annual income. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2001-2002
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20-89 |
| Sample size: | 3042 |
| Area covered: | Regional - Attica region |
| References: | Panagiotakos DB, Pitsavos C, Chrysohoou C, Vlismas K, Skoumas Y, Palliou K, Stefanadis C. Dietary habits mediate the relationship between socio-economic status and CVD factors among healthy adults: the ATTICA study. Public Health Nutr. 2008 Dec;11(12):1342-9. |
| Notes: | 3 income groups available for each education level |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 9-13 |
| Sample size: | n=729 |
| Area covered: | Urban region of Athens |
| References: | Moschonis, G., Tanagra, S., Vandorou, A., Kyriakou, A., Dede, V., Siatitsa, P.,... Manios, Y. (2010). Social, economic and demographic correlates of overweight and obesity in primary-school children: Preliminary data from the Healthy Growth Study. <i>Public Health Nutrition,</i> <i>13</i>(10A), 1693-1700. doi:10.1017/S1368980010002247 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of overweight and obesity by annual family income in €/year IOTF BMI cut-offs used Note small sample size |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 9-13 |
| Sample size: | n=729 |
| Area covered: | Urban region of Athens |
| References: | Moschonis, G., Tanagra, S., Vandorou, A., Kyriakou, A., Dede, V., Siatitsa, P.,... Manios, Y. (2010). Social, economic and demographic correlates of overweight and obesity in primary-school children: Preliminary data from the Healthy Growth Study. <i>Public Health Nutrition,</i> <i>13</i>(10A), 1693-1700. doi:10.1017/S1368980010002247 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of overweight and obesity by SES of residence region IOTF BMI cut-offs used Note small sample size |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Insufficient physical activity
Adults, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Men, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Women, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Children, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Boys, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Girls, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Sugar consumption
Adults, 2016
| References: | Source: Euromonitor International |
| Definitions: | Sugar consumption (Number of 500g sugar portions/person/month) |
Estimated per-capita sugar sweetened beverages intake
Adults, 2016
| References: | Source: Euromonitor International |
Prevalence of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption
Children, 2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| References: | World Health Organization. (2017). Adolescent obesity and related behaviours: Trends and inequalities in the who european region, 2002-2014: observations from the Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) WHO collaborative cross-national study (J. Inchley, D. Currie, J. Jewel, J. Breda, & V. Barnekow, Eds.). World Health Organization. Sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org |
| Notes: | 15-year-old adolescents |
| Definitions: | Prevalence of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption (% of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption) |
Prevalence of confectionery consumption
Adults, 2016
| References: | Source: Euromonitor International |
| Definitions: | Prevalence of confectionery consumption (Number of 50g confectionery portions/person/month) |
Prevalence of sweet/savoury snack consumption
Adults, 2016
| References: | Source: Euromonitor International |
| Definitions: | Prevalence of sweet/savoury snack consumption (Number of 35g sweet/savoury snack portions/person/month) |
Estimated per-capita fruit intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita fruit intake (g/day) |
Prevalence of less-than-daily fruit consumption
Children, 2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| References: | Global School-based Student Health Surveys. Beal et al (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287. Sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system |
| Definitions: | Prevalence of less-than-daily fruit consumption (% less-than-daily fruit consumption) |
Prevalence of less-than-daily vegetable consumption
Children, 2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 12-17 |
| References: | Beal et al. (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287 sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system |
| Definitions: | Prevalence of less-than-daily vegetable consumption (% less-than-daily vegetable consumption) |
Estimated per-capita processed meat intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita processed meat intake (g per day) |
Estimated per-capita whole grains intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita whole grains intake (g/day) |
Mental health - depression disorders
Adults, 2015
| References: | Prevalence data from Global Burden of Disease study 2015 (http://ghdx.healthdata.org) published in: Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO. |
| Definitions: | % of population with depression disorders |
Mental health - anxiety disorders
Adults, 2015
| References: | Prevalence data from Global Burden of Disease study 2015 (http://ghdx.healthdata.org) published in: Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO. |
| Definitions: | % of population with anxiety disorders |
Oesophageal cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, oesophagus, adults ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, oesophagus, adults ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Breast cancer
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, breast, females, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Colorectal cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, colorectum, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, colorectum, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Pancreatic cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, pancreas, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, pancreas, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Gallbladder cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, gallbladder, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, gallbladder, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Kidney cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, kidney, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, kidney, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Cancer of the uterus
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, cervix uteri, females, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Raised blood pressure
Adults, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Men, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Women, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Raised cholesterol
Adults, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Men, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Women, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Raised fasting blood glucose
Men, 2014
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A869?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised % raised fasting blood glucose (>= 7.0 mmol/L or on medication). |
Women, 2014
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A869?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised % raised fasting blood glucose (>= 7.0 mmol/L or on medication). |
Diabetes prevalence
Adults, 2017
| References: | Reproduced with kind permission of IDF, International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 8th edition. Brussels, Belgium: International Diabetes Federation, 2017. http://www.diabetesatlas.org |
| Definitions: | Diabetes age-adjusted comparative prevalence (%). |
Health systems
Economic classification: High Income
Health systems summary
Greece has a mixed public/private system made up of a National Health System funded primarily by taxes and a social health insurance system that is funded by insurance premiums from employers and employees. Greece’s economic crisis has had a major impact on its public health system, with large-scale austerity measures reducing spending. As a result, the quality of care in the public sector has decreased, leading many to seek out private care instead. A recent assessment by Amnesty International concluded that the austerity measures has resulted in reductions in the accessibility and the affordability of care.
As public health spending has fallen, private health spending has increased. This has result in reduced financial protection for the majority. Out of pocket expense (OOP) is among the highest in the EU at 35% of total health expenditure in 2017 and informal payments are reportedly rife. The majority of OOP expenses are thought to be due to pharmaceutical costs, costs borne from private care and recently introduced user fees.
Indicators
| Where is the country’s government in the journey towards defining ‘Obesity as a disease’? | No |
| Where is the country’s healthcare provider in the journey towards defining ‘Obesity as a disease’? | No |
| Is there specialist training available dedicated to the training of health professionals to prevent, diagnose, treat and manage obesity? | No |
| Have any taxes or subsidies been put in place to protect/assist/inform the population around obesity? | No |
| Are there adequate numbers of trained health professionals in specialties relevant to obesity in urban areas? | Some progress |
| Are there adequate numbers of trained health professionals in specialties relevant to obesity in rural areas? | No |
| Are there any obesity-specific recommendations or guidelines published for adults? | No |
| Are there any obesity-specific recommendations or guidelines published for children? | No |
| In practice, how is obesity treatment largely funded? | Out of pocket |
Summary of stakeholder feedback
The situation in Greece is dominated by the ongoing financial crisis. Physicians can identify their patient as living with overweight or obesity but due to a diminished health system, there are limited options to be referred onto. The Government has insufficient finance to support treatment and so stakeholders agreed that treatment is usually an 'out of pocket expense’ typically provided via private dieticians or clinics. Concern was expressed that this leaves individuals exposed to the unregulated slimming business. The situation is worse in rural areas where communities have very limited treatment options in both the private and public sector.
Stakeholders suggest that nearly all appropriately qualified health care practitioners (HCPs) work in the big cities, so there are inadequate numbers in rural areas. However, limited specialist training and the fact you have to self-fund means that few have an adequate level of obesity training. Fortunately, obesity-related associations are known to work with each other to arrange training courses that pool knowledge and resources. It seems that HCPs are keen to equip themselves to treat but have few facilities or resources to do so.
Due to limited finances, there are limited to no prevention efforts in Greece. Stakeholders reported that there are no campaigns or initiatives of note, and there are no fiscal measures in place.
Based on interviews/survey returns from 4 stakeholders
Last updated: June 2020
