The rising prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents is a global public health concern, significantly contributing to noncommunicable chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. In Croatia, obesity rates are alarmingly high, affecting both children and adults. Data from the Institute of the Public Health of Split-Dalmatian County were analyzed to identify trends in body mass index (BMI) among primary school students in Split, Croatia and possible connection with sports participation and parental education levels. A longitudinal analysis of students was conducted across three medical examinations during primary school education. The findings showed an increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity from 23.4% in the first to 30.2% in the fifth grade, returning back to 23.4% in the eighth grade. Significant differences among students were associated with parental education level. Boys who participated in sports demonstrated a higher BMI in the first grade but there was no difference in BMI in later grades. Sports participation had no significant impact on the BMI of girls. The study underscores the critical role of parental education in influencing children’s weight status and highlights the necessity of tailored public health interventions to address these trends from an early age. The implementation of comprehensive strategies, including educational programs and policy measures as part of the national health policy, is the only way to combat childhood obesity and promote long-term health benefits.

Background: Serious bacterial infections (SBIs) in neonates present a significant diagnostic challenge due to nonspecific symptoms and immature immune responses. Early identification is essential to ensure timely treatment and prevent adverse outcomes. This study investigates clinical, laboratory, and epidemiological parameters associated with SBI in febrile neonates. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on neonates hospitalized for suspected SBI at University Hospital Split from 1 January 2023 until 31 December 2024). The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U test and Chi-square test. Results: The study included 71 neonates hospitalized with suspected SBI, of whom 38 (53.5%) had a confirmed SBI. Neonates with SBI had a significantly longer hospital stay (p < 0.001). C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at admission were significantly higher in the SBI group (p = 0.020), while other laboratory parameters showed no significant differences. The most common diagnosis in the SBI group was urinary tract infection (50%). In urine analysis, abundant bacterial presence, strongly positive leukocyte esterase (3+), and positive nitrite findings were significantly associated with the presence of urinary tract infection (UTI). Conclusions: In neonates with suspected SBI, elevated CRP levels and prolonged hospital stay were significantly associated with confirmed SBI. Among specific diagnoses, UTI were most frequent, with urinalysis parameters (bacteria, leukocyte esterase, and nitrites) proving useful in identifying affected cases. However, individual clinical signs showed limited diagnostic value, highlighting the importance of combining clinical and laboratory data in early recognition of SBI.