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The annual European Childhood Obesity Group (ECOG) Congress is a leading European forum dedicated to advancing research, policy, and clinical practice in the field of childhood obesity. Bringing together researchers, clinicians, health professionals, and policymakers from across Europe and beyond, the Congress promotes sustainable, evidence-based solutions for the prevention and management of childhood obesity. Through keynote lectures, oral and poster sessions, policy workshops, and interactive discussions, ECOG fosters multidisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange to support healthier futures for children and adolescents.
The 35th Annual Congress of the European Childhood Obesity Group (ECOG 2026) will take place from 16–18 September 2026 in Salzburg, Austria, with the title “ImpACT”. Hosted at the University of Salzburg, this year’s congress will bring together researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to advance sustainable, evidence-based approaches to childhood obesity, featuring keynote lectures, oral and poster sessions, the Young Investigator Award, interactive eHealth workshops, and a dedicated Policy Workshop.
In 2014, ECOG launched a unique initiative: a free e-book for doctors, psychologists, physical activity specialists, nutritionists, health workers, and policy makers to provide them with the most recent research and best practices on childhood obesity.
Why this initiative?
Knowledge has rapidly evolved over the last 20 years, emphasizing the complexity of obesity. Many fields of research have merged in order to understand how child and adolescent obesity develops and can be cured. Obesity has become the most widespread non-communicable disease in children and adolescents. The WHO reports that in some countries, one out of five children are already obese at the age of 3 years old. Progress relies on strategies that integrate the most recent and updated research and evidence. Sharing knowledge has become urgent in order to improve prevention, care, and advocacy.
Which fields are covered?
Located within the breathtaking landscapes of the Parco Nazionale del Cilento, Vallo di Diano e Alburni, Bosco offers an unparalleled setting for our ECOG first Masterclass on childhood obesity. This extraordinary location, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, serves as the perfect backdrop for an intensive week of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.
Our masterclass brings together a highly selected group of young professionals from diverse fields to tackle one of today’s most pressing public health challenges: childhood obesity. Through interactive lectures, case discussions, and close exchanges with internationally recognized experts, participants will explore the multifaceted nature of childhood obesity, delving into genetic, behavioral, pharmacological, and environmental influences.
The program is designed to broaden perspectives, deepen understanding, and foster meaningful connections across disciplines. Our masterclass aims to equip professionals with the knowledge, insights, and collaborative vision needed to promote healthier futures for children everywhere.
Join us in this unique learning environment, where inspiration meets action, and together, we contribute shaping a healthier tomorrow.
