Obesity and overweight cost European economies billions of euros a year, industry says

Obesity and high body mass index (BMI) are increasingly straining European economies, according to a new pharmaceutical industry report. The total annual costs span 0.7% to 1.4% of national GDP across Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Ireland, Greece, Romania, and the United Kingdom. Conducted by the Office of Health Economics for the pharmaceutical lobby EFPIA, the study found these costs stem from both direct and indirect factors.

EFPIA Director General Nathalie Moll stressed that addressing obesity is crucial for citizens' health and wellbeing, protecting European health systems, and ensuring sustainable growth. As of 2024, 26% of European adults are obese (BMI of 30 or more), and 30% are overweight. Experts project these figures to worsen, with half of the world's adult population expected to be overweight or obese by 2035.

Europe's prevalence of overweight and obesity in adults has surged by 22% since 1990, while obesity has risen by over 75%. The economic burden of elevated BMI varies from €2.5 billion in Romania to €55.2 billion in Germany, totaling €43.2 billion in the UK. As a percentage of GDP, costs in Romania and the UK exceed 1.4%, surpassing defence spending in Greece and Germany.

Obesity and overweight are tied to 278,000 deaths and the loss of 8 million healthy life years in the eight countries studied. Beyond health concerns, obesity heightens the risk of non-communicable diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and cancer. Direct costs from these conditions amount to €100.4 billion, led by Germany at €30 billion. However, indirect costs, including absenteeism, economic inactivity, informal care, and premature deaths, add another significant burden.

The report urges a shift in approach to prevention and management, recognizing obesity as a disease rather than just a risk factor. It recommends improving access to prevention and treatment to reduce health service costs, boost economic productivity, and enhance societal resilience.