A SNAPSHOT OF GREEK HEALTH HABITS

Insights from a Local Survey

by Olha Dziuban

In my quest to understand common health habits in Greece, I conducted a simple but insightful survey by asking both my Greek friends and passers-by on the streets a few questions related to their health and lifestyle choices. The responses revealed interesting trends, shedding light on how Greeks perceive their well-being, physical activity, dietary habits and relationship with healthcare. Here are the highlights from the survey:

High Self-Rated Health Scores

One of the first questions I asked was how people rate their overall health on a scale of 1 to 10. Interestingly, most Greeks seem to feel quite positive about their health, with an average rating of around 8. This suggests that, overall, there is a strong sense of well-being among the population. The general sentiment reflected in this number may stem from a combination of active lifestyles and good dietary habits, which were further explored in the poll.

Physical Activity Varies by Age

When it comes to daily activity, the survey showed some generational differences. Younger respondents described themselves as “medium active,” with much of their activity coming from walking. Older Greeks, on the other hand, tend to be less active, largely due to work and family responsibilities, which leave them with less free time for physical exercise.

Despite this, Greeks from all age categories appear to enjoy sports.. There were hiking, swimming, sailing, skiing, and even water polo among the most frequently mentioned activities. However, the clear favorites were running and gymnastics, which are both popular and accessible forms of exercise. These results indicate that sports remain an important aspect of life among Greeks, even though the level of daily activity may vary.

Healthy Nutrition is a Priority

A particularly encouraging finding was related to food preferences. A significant number of respondents (75%) claimed they prioritize healthy food and actively avoid junk food in favor of nutritious meals. The remaining 25% mentioned balancing between healthy and less healthy choices, but even they emphasized that they include nutritious dishes into their daily ration. Fruit and vegetables, in particular, play a major role in Greek meals. Furthermore, many people also highlighted their preference for home-made food over eating out. This dedication to proper nutrition reflects the cultural importance of the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits.

Smoking Habits: A Generational Divide

In terms of smoking, the survey revealed a noticeable difference among various age groups. It seems younger people are less likely to smoke, with many opting for healthier lifestyles. On the other hand, older respondents, especially those in their 30s, are more frequently seen smoking, particularly in coffee shops and restaurants. This trend suggests smoking as a trend is gradually becoming less fashionable among the younger generation, who prefer fitness and wellness over tobacco.