More than a third of children and teenagers in Andalucia are living with excess weight, according to figures cited by the regional government.

The Junta has now approved OrbiTA, a programme offering earlier assessment and personalised treatment through local health centres, with a gradual rollout across all eight provinces in the first half of 2027.

The government puts the proportion of young people affected by overweight or obesity at 35.6%.

The new approach will focus on children’s health, wellbeing and family circumstances, with an emphasis on reducing stigma and preventing eating disorders.

BMI will serve as an initial screening tool, prompting further assessment, rather than determining a diagnosis by itself.

Checks will form part of routine child health appointments from the age of two. Children with specified risk factors will receive annual screening, while concerns can also be raised during other consultations.

Once a possible case is identified, the programme provides for a dedicated appointment within 15 days, followed by a plan agreed with the family and structured monitoring lasting up to 18 months.

Parents and other family members will be encouraged to take part in changes to everyday habits, rather than placing responsibility solely on the child.

The Junta says the programme will also recognise the greater burden on families with lower incomes and education levels.

Children with serious risk factors or metabolic complications may be referred to specialists in paediatric endocrinology, nutrition or mental health, while their health centre continues to coordinate care.

Progress will be assessed through improvements in health, quality of life and sustainable habits, alongside weight development appropriate to the child’s age.

Training for healthcare staff is due to begin on October 21, ahead of next year’s rollout.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.