Four in 10 children aged from 7 to 8 are currently overweight, as opposed to 33 percent in 2003, experts said yesterday, apportioning blame for the weight problems to the family and school environment.

Data collected by Harokopio University showed weight problems among primary school second graders are getting worse.

“Obesity among adults is directly affecting the diet of their children,” said Viki Piroyianni of the Hellenic Dietitians’ Association (HDA). Health experts described the results as “very disappointing” and said that children at that age have not yet even become addicted to fast food.

Consumers that are swept away by special deals offered by fast-food stores, such as “buy one pizza and get one free,” are in danger of adding 4-5 kilos, experts added.