Study Links Long Working Hours to Higher Obesity Rates

Obesity and Working Hours Correlation

International research presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Istanbul has identified a link between long working hours and higher rates of obesity. The study analyzed working patterns and obesity prevalence across 33 OECD countries over a period spanning from 1990 to 2022.

According to the findings, countries with longer annual working hours, specifically the United States, Mexico, and Colombia, also exhibited higher obesity rates. The research suggests that individuals who work longer hours are more likely to be obese and that reducing the amount of time spent working could assist in weight management.

Calls for Policy Change

Following the presentation of these findings, campaigners have called on government ministers to introduce a four-day working week. Advocates argue that reducing the standard work week could mitigate the health risks associated with long hours.

This push for a shorter work week comes as other research challenges the efficiency of the traditional five-day model. A report from the nonprofit advocacy group 4 Day Week Global found that employees can accomplish the same amount of work in a 33-hour workweek as they do in a 38-hour workweek.

Evidence from UK Trials

Supporters of the four-day week point to previous large-scale trials in the United Kingdom. Between June and December 2022, more than 60 UK companies participated in a trial of the four-day work week. In this trial, 61 organizations committed to a 20% reduction in working hours for all staff for six months without a reduction in wages.

Research into the UK's largest trial of the four-day week revealed benefits for both employees and employers. Specifically, a trial within the public sector involving workers at Accountant in Bankruptcy and South of Scotland has reported an increase in productivity and improvements in staff well-being.

Context of Labor Trends

Researchers from the UKRI have noted that despite significant advances in technology, many employees continue to work approximately the same number of hours per week as workers did 100 years ago. This lack of reduction in hours despite technological gains forms part of the broader case for transitioning to a shorter work week.

Data from the 2022 UK trial indicates high levels of business satisfaction with the model, with more than 90% of participating businesses continuing or planning to continue the four-day week after the trial ended.