Two studies are ongoing on the island into the causes, impacts, and prevention of obesity, the University of Cyprus said on Tuesday, World Obesity Day.

One of the two programmes, Better4U, examines genetic, socio-economic, and cultural factors that influence weight gain. Using an AI-driven model and data from a pilot study conducted in seven European countries, it aims to develop “personalised lifestyle interventions to prevent and tackle obesity”.

LifeEVA, the second programme, focuses on the relation between obesity and vascular health using data from the UCY’s research centre biobank.cy.

Both aim to offer not just theoretical insights but practical solutions to address obesity, tailored to the needs of Cypriot society.

“Research projects like Better4U and LifeEVA offer valuable data and solutions for a healthier future,” director of biobank.cy Dr Konstantinos Deltas said.

“Investing in research, genetics and personalised interventions is a decisive step towards a healthier society. World Obesity Day is a reminder that change begins today, with knowledge as our most powerful tool.”

March 4, he said, is an opportunity to reflect on the increasing impact of obesity on health, quality of life, but also the implications at the collective and economic level (e.g. on a country’s health system).

In Cyprus, obesity and overweight rates continue to be a growing concern.

A 2024 study revealed that one in three Cypriots is overweight, reflecting a global trend that predicts one in three children will be overweight by 2050.

The 2019 European Health Survey found that 47.7 per cent of Cypriots aged 15 and over have a normal body mass index (BMI), while 33.8 per cent are considered overweight and 14.6 per cent extremely overweight.

With obesity linked to a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disorders, and some cancers, experts stress the need for more precise and individualized health assessments