Childhood overweight rises among 6–9 year olds in North Macedonia

Health experts and educators warn that overweight and obesity among young children in North Macedonia have moved beyond an individual medical issue into a wider social challenge. Recent figures show that nearly one in three children aged 6 to 9 is overweight, and a significant share are already living with obesity.

Diet, screens and limited exercise

Researchers point to poor dietary patterns established early in life — frequent consumption of sugary drinks, snacks and processed foods — combined with increasingly sedentary daily routines. Time spent on mobile phones and other digital devices has expanded, reducing opportunities for active play and movement.

Insufficient physical activity at home and questions about how much exercise schools provide are central to the debate. The World Health Organization recommends that children and adolescents engage in an average of at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily, but professionals say many children fall short of that target.

School-based physical education is considered a key setting where regular activity can be guaranteed, yet the intensity and frequency of classes vary. Policymakers, school leaders and parents are increasingly discussing whether adjustments to curricula and school schedules are needed to improve children’s health and reduce future disease risk.

The conversation is also focusing on prevention: promoting healthier meals and snacks, limiting sugary drinks, encouraging active transport to school where possible, and creating more opportunities for play during and after the school day.

POLL: Should schools have more physical education classes? Yes/No

Photo: press material from the event