Greece – Health Issues

What are the most common health issues and diseases in Greece?

In 2022, cardiovascular diseases and cancer together accounted for more than half of all recorded deaths in Greece. Conditions spanning ischaemic heart disease, stroke, and numerous cancer types define the country’s overall disease burden and are the primary concerns driving national public health policy. The prevalence of arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, diabetes mellitus, and obesity has held steady or edged upward across recent decades.

Although the rate of cardiovascular disease incidence in Greece sits below the EU average, it nonetheless stands as the single largest contributor to mortality. Persistent risk factors — notably high rates of tobacco use, elevated body weight, and insufficient physical activity — sustain cardiovascular ill health across all segments of the population. Tobacco consumption and dietary patterns are among the most significant contributors to premature death nationally.

Over 63,000 new cancer diagnoses were anticipated in Greece in 2022. Five-year cancer prevalence falls below the EU average, yet cancer remains the second most common cause of death. Since 2000, deaths attributable to lung, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer have increased. Premature mortality from liver, pancreatic, and ovarian cancers has also climbed in recent years, making these particularly important areas of concern for clinicians and policymakers.

A population-based survey conducted in Greece found that fungal infections (7.5%), alopecia (5.7%), atopic dermatitis (5%), acne (3.6%), and rosacea (1.3%) ranked among the more widespread skin conditions. Given Greece’s intense sunshine and prolonged periods of high UV exposure, skin-related health issues are a common everyday reality — particularly for those unaccustomed to the southern European sun. Respiratory conditions, especially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are also a significant burden, closely tied to the country’s elevated smoking prevalence.

Historically, Greece has not had comprehensive frameworks for preventing and managing non-communicable diseases, resulting in a healthcare approach that has favoured treatment over early intervention and health promotion. This has contributed to a tendency for conditions to be identified at a later stage rather than caught through screening or primary prevention. Secondary prevention programmes for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer as well as cardiovascular disease have been launched since the early 2020s, though the absence of rigorous systematic evaluation makes it difficult to gauge how effective these initiatives have been.

Is Greece considered a healthy country? How do health outcomes compare internationally?

As is the case throughout Europe, Greek women outlive men by a considerable margin. In 2024, women in Greece could expect to reach 84.5 years of age — some 5.2 years beyond the male figure of 79.3 years. Greece’s overall life expectancy of approximately 82.2 years is well ahead of the global mean of 73.7 years and places the country broadly alongside other Western European nations, though just short of top-ranking countries such as Switzerland, Spain, and Italy.

This gap between male and female longevity mirrors the EU average and has remained relatively stable over the past two decades. However, living to an older age does not automatically mean living well in those later years. Fewer older Greeks report healthy life years than the EU average, indicating that a substantial proportion of the population spends a considerable part of later life managing chronic conditions or dealing with disability.

Mortality from both preventable and treatable causes has remained below the EU average in Greece — a positive indicator suggesting the healthcare system manages serious diagnoses reasonably effectively once they are identified. Nevertheless, Greece sits among the EU’s ten least prepared health systems, recording a score of 54.1 against an EU average of 59.5 in the GLOBSEC Healthcare Readiness Index 2024.

For the most current data on Greece’s health indicators, readers are encouraged to consult the WHO Greece country profile, the European Commission’s State of Health in the EU country profiles, and the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT), all of which are updated on a regular basis.

What infectious diseases or environmental health risks should expats be aware of in Greece?

By most infectious disease benchmarks, Greece is a safe place to live and no mandatory vaccinations are required for either travellers or new residents. That said, there are several environmental and infectious health matters that are worth understanding before you make the move.

West Nile Virus represents the most significant vector-borne disease risk in the country. Carried by infected mosquitoes, it has triggered seasonal outbreaks — primarily in northern regions including Central Macedonia and Thessaly — since 2010. The large majority of infections are mild or produce no symptoms at all, but in uncommon cases the virus can lead to severe neurological complications. Robust mosquito protection throughout the summer months is strongly advisable, particularly in rural settings and near bodies of water.

Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease transmitted through sandfly bites, is present in Greece — most notably in rural and semi-rural areas. The infection poses a greater risk to dogs than to people, but visceral leishmaniasis, the more serious human form of the disease, does occur. Anyone relocating to the Greek countryside with a pet should speak to a vet about appropriate preventive treatment.

Tick-borne encephalitis and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever have been documented in Greece on an infrequent basis. Anyone spending time in forested or rural environments should make a habit of checking for ticks after outdoor activities.

Food and water safety is broadly satisfactory across Greece. Tap water is safe for drinking in most cities and larger towns, though quality can be less reliable on certain smaller islands, where bottled water is widely used. Gastrointestinal infections can arise, particularly during the summer when warm temperatures increase the risk of food handling problems at seasonal markets and outdoor eateries.

Air quality is a genuine and ongoing concern in Athens and other large cities. Greece’s performance on air pollution compares unfavourably with most other EU member states and remains an area where improvement is needed. Athens frequently records high levels of particulate matter and ozone, especially during summer months. People with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD should monitor local air quality data and take medical advice both before relocating to a major city and in the initial period after arriving.

Greece’s antibiotic consumption rate of 24.9 defined daily doses per day in 2023 is substantially higher than that of most other EU countries. Self-medication with antibiotics and the practice of dispensing prescription medications without requiring a prescription are acknowledged problems. Both contribute to growing concerns about antimicrobial resistance, which represents a broader public health challenge for the country.

Routine vaccinations generally recommended for those living in Greece include hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), and influenza. Expats should check the current vaccination guidance issued by their home country’s travel health authority — for instance, Travel Health Pro (UK), the US CDC, or an equivalent national body — prior to their move. Greece’s Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Organisation (EODY) publish ongoing updates on current disease risks and vaccination schedules.

Is smoking common in Greece, and what are the laws around it?

According to a 2024 survey, Greece has one of the highest rates of tobacco use anywhere in the European Union. As of 2022, 29.6% of Greek adults smoke daily. Cigarette smoking has deep cultural roots in Greece and remains a socially accepted habit in many contexts and settings. Expats arriving from countries where adult daily smoking rates have dropped well below 15% — such as the UK, Ireland, or Australia — may find the frequency of smoking and the level of second-hand smoke exposure considerably higher than what they are used to.

Because earlier legislation proved insufficient, a stronger and more comprehensive law came into effect on 1 September 2010. This legislation prohibits smoking and the use of tobacco products in all workplaces, transport terminals, taxis and passenger vessels, and throughout all enclosed public spaces including bars and restaurants. The legislation was subsequently reinforced and extended in 2019.

Despite these legal prohibitions, compliance in practice remains inconsistent. In certain bars, cafés, and tavernas — particularly in smaller towns or tourist-oriented areas — indoor smoking continues even where it is technically not permitted. The gap between what the law states and what happens in reality can be considerable, and expats who are sensitive to smoke or have respiratory concerns should be aware of this discrepancy before visiting or settling into particular neighbourhoods.

In 2025, additional tighter regulations came into force governing the sale, distribution, and accessibility of tobacco and related products, reflecting a continued governmental commitment to reducing tobacco harm. Regarding vaping and electronic cigarettes, these are covered by EU-wide regulatory frameworks and their sale and use in public settings is restricted in Greece, though enforcement in hospitality environments remains variable. For the most current rules, the Ministry of Health website is the best reference point for tobacco and nicotine product regulations.

Is obesity or poor diet a significant health concern in Greece?

When measured against other EU countries, Greece performs poorly on indicators of overweight and obesity. This often catches people by surprise given the country’s worldwide reputation for the Mediterranean diet — but the truth is that genuine adherence to traditional dietary patterns has declined considerably in recent decades. Processed foods, fast food, and more sedentary daily routines have become progressively more common, especially among younger age groups.

Daily vegetable consumption among Greek adults is roughly in line with the EU average at 59%, while daily fruit consumption (55%) falls short of the EU average of 61%. The picture is considerably more concerning among young people: among Greek 15-year-olds, only 28% reported eating at least one portion of vegetables each day, and just 21% reported eating at least one portion of fruit daily. These figures point to a widening generational divide in dietary habits.

In 2024, the National Nutrition Policy Committee released new recommendations aimed at improving the nutritional content of school canteen menus; however, comparable initiatives from previous years were not successfully implemented or consistently enforced. A range of childhood obesity programmes is currently in operation, although their long-term effectiveness has yet to be fully assessed. This pattern — where well-intentioned policies are introduced but not sustained in practice — is a recurring theme in Greece’s approach to public health.

For expats settling in Greece, the local food culture — when grounded in traditional Mediterranean principles — offers some of the most health-supportive eating available anywhere, featuring plentiful olive oil, seasonal vegetables, pulses, fish, and wholegrain products. Weekly open-air markets (laïkés) found throughout cities and towns make it both easy and affordable to eat in this way. Physical activity levels, however, tend to run lower than in many northern European countries, and expats — particularly those moving to urban centres — should consciously build activity into their daily routines.

What are the mental health attitudes and services like in Greece?

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, one in every five people in Greece had experienced a mental health condition. The most prevalent diagnoses were depression — estimated to affect around 7% of the population — followed by anxiety disorders (6%) and alcohol and drug-use disorders (2%). These proportions are broadly comparable to those seen elsewhere in Western Europe, though they may understate the true picture given the social stigma that can discourage people from disclosing difficulties or seeking care.

The economic crisis that gripped Greece over much of the past decade created widespread socioeconomic hardship and rising unemployment, both of which drove a marked increase in mental health disorders including depression. The one-month prevalence rate for major depression doubled between 2008 (3.3%) and 2011 (8.2%). Although the economy has recovered meaningfully since its lowest point, the psychological legacy of that extended period of hardship continues to affect many individuals and communities.

There remains a degree of stigma surrounding mental health in Greece, particularly among older generations and in rural settings. It is common for people to manage psychological struggles within the support of family networks rather than turning to professional care, and seeking psychotherapy or psychiatric treatment is less socially normalised than it may be in countries with established community mental health cultures, such as the Netherlands, Germany, or the Nordic nations. Attitudes are nonetheless evolving, particularly among younger and more urban populations.

Mental health reform efforts have emphasised the expansion of community-based services, health education and promotion initiatives, and primary and secondary prevention — including substance misuse programmes. However, publicly funded mental health services remain comparatively limited when set against countries with more mature universal healthcare systems. Waiting times for public psychiatric care can be lengthy, and the number of state-funded psychologists and psychotherapists per head of population is lower than the EU average.

For expats, the most accessible route to mental health support is through private care. Many psychologists and therapists practising in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major cities offer consultations in several languages, including English. The cost of private therapy sessions typically falls in the range of €50 to €120 per session — though it is advisable to confirm fees directly with individual providers. Those facing a serious mental health emergency can access psychiatric services through the emergency departments of major public hospitals. Expats who have enrolled in Greece’s national health insurance scheme (EOPYY) may be entitled to some publicly funded mental health support, though what is available varies considerably depending on where you live.

Are there any health risks specific to expats living in Greece?

Expats making the move to Greece will encounter several health-related adjustments that merit advance planning. The majority of these relate to adapting to a new climate and lifestyle or to navigating an unfamiliar healthcare system — rather than to any exotic or severe disease threats.

Heat and sun exposure are the most immediate and frequently underestimated hazards, especially for those arriving from cooler parts of the world. Greek summers are long, intensely hot, and dry — temperatures routinely surpass 38°C in July and August, and extreme heatwaves have grown more frequent as a consequence of climate change. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke pose genuine dangers, above all for older adults, young children, and anyone engaged in physical outdoor work. Consistent use of high-factor sunscreen, protective hats, and avoidance of direct sun during the hottest midday hours are all essential habits to develop.

Broader climate adjustment can also create respiratory challenges. The combination of summer heat, low humidity, and elevated urban air pollution in cities such as Athens can worsen asthma and other lung conditions. Expats with existing respiratory issues should consult their doctor ahead of the move and ensure they arrive with a sufficient supply of any required medication.

Healthcare access is an important practical issue to address early. Greece has a relatively limited number of general practitioners (GPs) by EU standards, and securing a regular primary care physician — particularly outside major urban centres — can be more difficult than in countries where GP networks are well-developed. Enrolling with EOPYY (the National Organisation for Healthcare Services Provision) as promptly as possible once you are eligible is strongly advisable. Expats working in Greece typically gain access to EOPYY coverage through contributions made by their employer to the social insurance system.

Private health insurance is highly recommended, especially in the early stages of living in Greece. Out-of-pocket spending on healthcare is relatively high compared to EU norms — direct patient payments account for just over one third of all health expenditure in the country. A comprehensive private insurance policy will open faster routes to specialist care, private hospital facilities, and diagnostic services, while substantially reducing financial exposure in the event of a serious illness.

Medication availability is generally adequate in Greece for routine conditions, but supply shortages have occurred during periods of economic instability. Expats managing ongoing health conditions should arrive with a generous stock of their regular medications and move quickly to obtain a prescription from a local doctor to ensure continued supply.

Practical steps for safeguarding your health as an expat in Greece include: registering with EOPYY as soon as you qualify; identifying a local private doctor (iatros) in your area; confirming that your vaccinations are current; arranging private health insurance; and registering with your home country’s embassy in Athens so you can receive health alerts and relevant notifications as they arise.

Where can expats find reliable health information and services in Greece?

When seeking health guidance in Greece, it is essential to rely on official and well-established sources. Health guidelines, vaccination recommendations, and public health risk assessments are subject to change — particularly during disease outbreaks or when new EU-wide regulations are introduced — so cross-checking information before and after your arrival is important.

• Greek Ministry of Health (Υπουργείο Υγείας) — the principal government body responsible for health policy, public health guidance, and official communications on health matters.
• National Public Health Organisation (EODY) — Greece’s equivalent of a Centre for Disease Control, publishing epidemiological bulletins, outbreak alerts, and vaccination schedules on an ongoing basis.
• EOPYY (National Organisation for Healthcare Services Provision) — the body that administers public health insurance in Greece. Expats who are eligible for public healthcare coverage should register here and use this as their primary resource for entitlements information.
• Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) — the national statistics body, publishing health-related data including life expectancy figures, mortality statistics, and cause-of-death records.
• WHO Greece country page — offers internationally comparable health data and periodic assessments of Greece’s public health situation.
• European Commission State of Health in the EU — Greece — regularly updated country health profiles covering health outcomes, risk factors, and healthcare system performance.

For guidance tailored to expats, your home country’s embassy in Athens often maintains a list of vetted local doctors, dentists, and hospitals. Expat community groups on social media and online forums can also be a useful source of word-of-mouth recommendations for finding healthcare providers. As always, personal recommendations should be verified against official sources before any significant health decisions are made.

Keep in mind that specific statistics, vaccination requirements, entitlements under the public healthcare system, and public health advisories can and do change over time. Always confirm current information with official Greek health authorities and relevant international bodies, both before you relocate and throughout your time in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Issues in Greece

Is tap water safe to drink in Greece?

Tap water is safe to drink in most mainland cities, including Athens. On smaller islands, however, water quality can be more variable, and many residents and visitors there choose bottled water as a matter of course. If you are relocating to a rural area or a smaller island, it is sensible to ask local residents or your municipal authority about the drinking water safety in your particular location.

Do I need any vaccinations before moving to Greece?

There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for entry into Greece. Nevertheless, health professionals generally advise making sure your routine immunisations are up to date before you go — these typically include tetanus, diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), hepatitis A and B, and influenza. Review the travel health guidance issued by your home country’s national health authority and check EODY’s current recommendations once you have arrived. Guidance can change, so always verify the latest advice before you travel.

Is mosquito-borne disease a serious risk in Greece?

West Nile Virus, spread through the bites of infected mosquitoes, has been responsible for seasonal outbreaks in parts of northern Greece — particularly the Central Macedonia and Thessaly regions — during the summer months. The majority of people who contract it experience mild symptoms or none at all, but severe illness does occur in some cases. Applying insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing in the evenings, and using window screens or nets when sleeping during summer are straightforward and effective precautions, especially if you are living in a rural area.

How good is Greece’s public healthcare system for expats?

Expats who are enrolled in Greece’s social insurance system (IKA/EFKA) are entitled to access the national health service through EOPYY. In practice, however, public services can be under significant pressure — particularly away from the main cities — with longer waiting times and a lower density of GPs than in many comparable EU nations. The majority of expats choose to supplement public entitlement with private health insurance to ensure prompt access to specialists and private hospital care. Given that direct out-of-pocket costs are relatively steep by EU standards, having adequate insurance in place is strongly recommended.

Is mental health support available in English in Greece?

In Athens, Thessaloniki, and other cities with sizeable international communities, a growing number of private psychologists and therapists offer sessions in English and other languages. Accessing similar services in more rural areas or on smaller islands can be considerably harder. Online therapy platforms offer a practical alternative in the short term while you establish yourself and build connections in your new location.

How does the Mediterranean diet affect health for expats living in Greece?

The traditional Greek version of the Mediterranean diet — built around olive oil, pulses, vegetables, fish, and wholegrain foods — is well established as beneficial for heart health and longevity. For expats willing to embrace local eating traditions, there are real health gains to be made, and fresh produce is both widely available and inexpensive through local markets. It is worth noting, though, that contemporary Greek dietary habits — particularly in cities and among younger people — have drifted considerably towards processed and convenience foods, so eating in the traditional way requires some conscious effort and intention.

Is air pollution a concern for expats living in Greece?

Air quality is a real issue in Athens and other large urban centres, particularly in summer when elevated temperatures, heavy traffic, and ozone formation combine to produce poor air. Greece has been found to underperform relative to EU peers on air pollution metrics. Expats living with asthma, COPD, or other breathing-related conditions should take medical advice before relocating to a major Greek city, keep track of local air quality readings, and have a clear plan for managing their medications accordingly.

What should I do if I need emergency medical treatment in Greece?

In an emergency, dial 166 to request an ambulance, or go directly to the emergency department (Επείγοντα) of the nearest public hospital. Greek law guarantees that everyone, regardless of their insurance status, is entitled to emergency medical care. EU citizens holding a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are covered for medically necessary treatment at public facilities. Non-EU expats should arrange comprehensive private health insurance before arriving in Greece, as the costs of uninsured treatment can be very substantial.