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Study Links Reduced Working Hours to Lower Obesity Rates in 33 OECD Countries

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Study Links Longer Working Hours to Higher Obesity Rates

A new study presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO 2026) in Istanbul, Turkey, has found a statistical association between annual working hours and adult obesity rates across 33 OECD countries.

"When people have a more balanced life, they have a better life. They have less stress, they can focus on more nutritious food and engage in more physical activities." — Dr. Pradeepa Korale-Gedara

Study Methodology

The research, led by Dr. Pradeepa Korale-Gedara at the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, used computer modeling to analyze working patterns and obesity prevalence across selected nations from 1990 to 2022. The study did not establish causation.

Key Findings

The analysis found that a 1% reduction in annual working hours was associated with a 0.16% decrease in obesity rates across whole populations.

Gender-Specific Associations

Group Association per 1% reduction in working hours Men 0.23% decrease in obesity Women 0.11% decrease in obesity

Notable time-period differences emerged:

  • 1990–2010 period: Stronger association — 0.24% for men, 0.17% for women
  • 2000–2022 period: Weaker association — 0.12% for men, 0.17% for women

Other Economic and Demographic Factors

  • A 1% increase in GDP per capita was linked to a 0.112% reduction in obesity (0.16% for men, 0.11% for women)
  • A 1% increase in urbanization was associated with a 0.02% decrease in obesity for both sexes
  • National average energy and fat intake were not well correlated with obesity rates

National Comparisons

As of 2022, the United States had the highest adult obesity rate at 41.99%, while Japan had the lowest at 5.54%.

Lowest Annual Working Hours (2022)

  • Germany: 1,340 hours
  • Norway: 1,422 hours
  • Belgium: 1,422 hours

Highest Annual Working Hours (2022)

  • Colombia: 2,282 hours
  • Mexico: 2,226 hours
  • Costa Rica: 2,149 hours

Explanatory Factors

The researchers noted that longer working hours may reduce time for physical activity, increase stress, and lead to reliance on convenience foods. They concluded that policy interventions addressing work-life balance, urban design, and food environments may help mitigate obesity risk.

"If you work two jobs or long hours, you simply do not have the energy to cook and it becomes easier to just buy something packaged or processed." — Dr. Rita Fontinha, psychologist, University of Reading

Response

A government spokesperson stated: "This government will not mandate a four-day work week for five days' pay. But through the Employment Rights Act, we're making it easier for flexible working requests to be accepted."

James Reeves, campaign manager at the 4 Day Week Foundation, said: "A four-day week on full pay could slash Britain's obesity levels by giving millions the time they need to ditch bad habits and make healthier choices."

Context

The research notes that income levels may also be a factor in the observed association. Approximately 200 UK companies and South Cambridgeshire district council have adopted a four-day working week.