Slovakia sees rise in child overweight and obesity rates

A recent survey of 971 Slovak parents of children aged 7‑13 shows that 22 % of the cohort are now classified as overweight (10 %) or obese (12 %). The proportion of children with excess weight rose by three percentage points compared with the previous year, with the highest obesity rates among 12‑ to 13‑year‑olds. While 74 % of children remain in the normal‑weight range, 80 % of parents still judge their child’s weight as appropriate, and only 14 % recognize overweight and 1 % recognise obesity.

The study also recorded dietary trends: daily breakfast consumption fell slightly to 63 %, and the share of children skipping breakfast increased to 13 %. Intake of fast‑food‑type meals three to four times a week grew from 8 % to 13 %, and daily consumption of sweets rose to 45 %, up two points. Sugary‑drink consumption rose to 23 % of children. Physical activity levels remained modest, with 33 % reporting daily exercise, a small decline from the previous year.

These findings highlight a growing public‑health concern in Slovakia, underscoring the need for greater awareness among parents and targeted interventions to promote healthier eating and active lifestyles among children.