Economic Burden of Overweight and Obesity in Sweden: Current Estimates and Future Projections
Fridhammar A, Dahlgren J, Galavazi M, Hjelm L, Dereke J, Steen Carlsson K
A new study published in the scientific journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism estimates the economic burden associated with overweight and obesity in Sweden. According to the study, the total economic burden was estimated at approximately EUR 7 billion in 2023. Obesity alone accounted for EUR 4.4 billion.
Most of the economic burden was due to lost production, which accounted for 71 percent. The productivity losses resulted, among other things, from sick leave, unemployment and premature death. Healthcare accounted for 21 percent of the costs, while pharmaceuticals represented just under 4 percent.
The study also examines how the economic burden could develop through 2040. It is projected to reach EUR 7.2 billion due solely to demographic changes, assuming that the prevalence of overweight and obesity remains at the 2023 level. If the prevalence continues to increase at the same rate as over the past decade, the economic burden is instead projected to reach EUR 8.6 billion.
Our calculations indicate that most of the economic burden associated with overweight and obesity is currently borne by individuals and society at large. Given the substantial economic burden, the healthcare system needs to do more, for example through targeted preventive measures, evidence-based treatment and increased access to bariatric surgery.
Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 2026; 1–9
https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.71122.
