Management of Adolescent Obesity by Pediatricians in Western Macedonia, Greece: Updated Knowledge and Daily Clinical Practice in a Geographically Challenging Region.

BACKGROUND

Adolescent obesity is an escalating public health concern globally and in Greece, associated with significant physical and psychological consequences. Pediatricians serve as frontline clinicians in the early identification, counseling, and management of adolescents with excess weight; however, their practices, perceived competence, and the barriers they face remain insufficiently explored in certain Greek regions.

METHODS

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using a structured, anonymous questionnaire distributed to all pediatricians working in Western Macedonia (n = 60). Fifty-one pediatricians participated (response rate 85%). The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, training, knowledge, clinical practices, attitudes, self-assessed competence, and perceived barriers.

RESULTS

Most participants (88.2%) reported no specialized training in adolescent obesity. Nearly half of respondents were unfamiliar with current diagnostic criteria for adolescent obesity. Although pediatricians expressed confidence in providing nutritional and lifestyle counseling, they reported limited competence in pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery discussions. The most prominent barriers included insufficient family cooperation, lack of referral pathways, and difficulty engaging adolescents. Older and more experienced pediatricians reported higher levels of perceived competence and stronger interdisciplinary collaboration.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant gaps in training and clinical support hinder the effective management of adolescent obesity in Western Macedonia. Strengthening continuous professional education, establishing multidisciplinary obesity care networks, and improving family engagement strategies appear crucial to enhancing clinical practice and improving health outcomes for adolescents.