An eight-year study conducted by the Child Health Research and Education Institute has analysed the eating habits and physical health of Cypriots, with findings published on Friday revealing that adults gained an average of 2.7kg during the pandemic.

According to the study, 16.9 per cent of Cypriots are classified as obese. Obesity rates were found to be significantly higher in rural areas, at 20.5 per cent, compared to 14.6 per cent in urban centres. The findings also showed a greater prevalence of obesity among individuals from low-income households.

The study highlighted a widespread lack of physical activity, with one-third of the population exhibiting “very low levels of physical activity.”

Researchers also asked participants about their observance of the Orthodox Church’s Lenten fasting tradition. Only 7 per cent reported strictly adhering to the full 40-day fast.

The study was conducted in two four-year phases between 2014 and 2022 and examined the health of 1,865 participants across all age groups, from toddlers to seniors. It assessed a range of parameters, including weight, height, blood pressure, educational attainment, household income, physical activity levels, and overall dietary habits.