LONDON: Italy, long celebrated as the birthplace of the Mediterranean diet, is facing a growing childhood obesity crisis, with an increasing number of children and teenagers struggling with severe weight problems that are now requiring life-changing medical treatment.
Among them is 17-year-old Salvatore, who weighs 170 kilograms (26 stone 10 pounds) and finds even basic daily activities difficult. He cannot tie his shoelaces, and his Vespa scooter repeatedly breaks down under his weight. According to his mother, Anna, his constant eating has become a serious concern.
Health experts say the problem is particularly severe in southern Italy. In parts of the Campania region, more than 40% of children aged eight and nine are overweight. The Naples suburb of Ponticelli has even gained a reputation as one of the world’s child obesity hotspots.
The trend marks a dramatic shift for a country traditionally associated with healthy eating habits. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Italian children are now among the most overweight in Europe.
Salvatore is currently awaiting bariatric surgery at Betania Hospital in Ponticelli, where specialist Dr. Sonja Chiappetta has spent the past 15 years treating patients with severe obesity.
Dr. Chiappetta said that until a few years ago, most of her patients were in their 50s, but the situation has changed dramatically.
“Now I treat teenagers as young as 16 with the same serious obesity problems. Patients are becoming younger, and it is deeply worrying,” she said.
The procedure performed at the hospital removes up to 90% of the stomach, significantly limiting food intake and helping patients achieve long-term weight loss. Doctors say demand for the surgery has risen sharply as obesity rates continue to climb among young people.
Medical experts warn that childhood obesity increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, joint disorders, and other chronic health conditions later in life. They stress that healthier diets, regular physical activity, and early intervention are essential to reversing the trend.
Authorities and healthcare professionals are calling for stronger public health initiatives to encourage better nutrition and healthier lifestyles, particularly among children, to prevent obesity from becoming an even greater national health challenge.
