Adolescents in Crete, as well as other provinces, display a significantly higher proportion of health problems than their city peers, according to a new study just released.

One in two high school pupils have a predisposition to scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, while 58 percent suffer from visual impairment, according to the study which was carried out with the participation of pupils in Crete, Aitoloacarnania and in the Peloponnese.

The study also shows that eight out of 10 pupils have tooth decay and that 12 percent have had a heart murmur.

A similar study with pupils in Attica showed that only 3.8 percent suffered from scoliosis and 3.7 percent had had a heart murmur.

The findings highlight the importance of promoting preventive healthcare at schools particularly in the provinces, said Athens University professor Yiannis Tountas.