A new international study has found that long working hours may rise obesity rates around the world. Researchers said poor work-life balance makes it more difficult for people to stay healthy and maintain their weight. The findings were presented at the European Congress on Obesity 2026.
According to the study, people who spend more time at work often get less physical activity, especially office workers who sit for long periods. Researchers said this lack of movement can slowly lead to weight gain over time. The study also found that workplace stress plays an important role in obesity. Long working hours can increase stress levels, which raises cortisol, a hormone linked to weight gain. Experts said stress can also cause people to eat more unhealthy food, adding to the problem.
Lead researcher Dr. Pradeepa Corell-Gaidara said a healthy work-life balance is important for overall health. She explained that people with better balance usually have lower stress, healthier diets, and more physical activity, which helps them manage their weight more effectively.
The research examined data from 33 OECD countries, including the United Kingdom, from 1990 to 2022. It found a consistent connection between longer working hours and higher obesity rates. Countries such as the United States, Mexico, and Colombia, where people generally work longer hours, showed higher obesity levels.
Researchers also said even small reductions in working hours could improve public health. The study found that reducing annual working hours by just 1 percent could lower obesity rates by an average of 0.16 percent. Experts believe this shows that better work-life balance can make a meaningful difference in people’s health.
