Parliamentary committee discusses alarming obesity rates in Cyprus

During a session of the House health committee, medical experts from the newly formed Cyprus Obesity Study Society (KEMEPA) presented data indicating that 42% of children aged 6 to 10 and 30% of adults in Cyprus are obese. Health officials highlighted that up to 75% of the condition is attributed to genetic factors, while noting its direct links to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and cancer. Experts warned that 80% of obese children are likely to remain obese as adults, and global projections suggest obesity rates may triple in the next two decades. The committee criticized the Ministry of Health for the lack of specialized intervention strategies since 2015, despite Cyprus consistently ranking among the countries with the highest obesity rates in international monitoring programs. Proposals presented to the committee include the official recognition of obesity as a chronic disease, the creation of a specialized national obesity center, and the development of a comprehensive national strategy. In response to these findings, the House health committee decided to send a formal letter to the Minister of Health urging immediate action. The initiative aims to improve medical training and implement preventative measures to combat what experts describe as a major public health crisis.