Obesity and the Labour Market: Employment, Sick leave, and Policy Responses

Obesity presents a growing public health and economic challenge in Europe, with rising prevalence projected to significantly impact labour market participation and productivity. Worldwide the direct costs of obesity are reflected in an increased use of healthcare services and an average of 8.4% of total health expenditure in OECD countries. Indirect costs involve increased absenteeism and reduced productivity, lower employment rates due to physical limitations and employer bias, and wage penalties which particularly affect women. Socio-economic disparities linked to obesity are evident in poorer educational outcomes, harmful stereotypes (such as a perceived lack of discipline or professionalism), and disadvantages shaped by neighbourhood environments, urbanization, and health literacy.

To address these issues, policy interventions must be comprehensive. A multimodal approach should consider all drivers of obesity while avoiding a one-size-fits-all model and acknowledging the need for tailored prevention and treatment strategies. A multi-sectoral approach is essential, requiring coordination across different stakeholders. Preventive policy tools include increasing (nutritional) health literacy, opportunities for physical activity, taxes on sugary drinks, restrictions on food and beverage marketing to children, and food labelling. Measures to support individuals with obesity include initiatives such as the EPODE and the HENRY approach, while pharmacological options in connection with lifestyle changes can help reduce long-term healthcare costs. Improving labour market outcomes for individuals with obesity requires better access to treatment, innovations in therapy, anti-discrimination policies, workplace health promotion, public health education, and inclusive policies that support prevention and treatment efforts.