International research presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Istanbul has found a link between longer working hours and higher obesity rates. The study, which analysed data from 33 OECD countries between 1990 and 2022, revealed that nations with longer annual working hours, such as the US, Mexico and Colombia, also had higher obesity prevalence. This was despite northern European countries consuming more energy and fat on average.
Reducing annual working hours by 1% was associated with a 0.16% decrease in obesity rates. The authors suggest that lack of time for exercise and work-related stress could explain the findings. Dr Pradeepa Korale-Gedara of the University of Queensland, lead author, noted that increased stress raises cortisol levels, causing fat storage, while many jobs do not allow for energy expenditure.
“When people have a more balanced life, they have a better life,” she said. “They have less stress, they can focus on more nutritious food and engage in more physical activities.” Although the study does not prove causation, it has prompted renewed calls for a four-day week in the UK.
Around 200 UK companies have already adopted a four-day week, and South Cambridgeshire district council has introduced it for all staff. Office for National Statistics data shows over 200,000 workers have switched to a four-day week since the pandemic. James Reeves of 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.”
Dr Rita Fontinha, a psychologist at the University of Reading, said obesity is closely related to time poverty. “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.” However, the government remains opposed, with a spokesperson stating it will not mandate a four-day week for five days' pay, but is making it easier for flexible working requests to be accepted.
