Long working hours could be quietly shaping global health trends, according to a new international study.
Researchers warn that poor work-life balance is making it harder for people to maintain a healthy weight.
The findings were presented at the European Congress on Obesity 2026.
A new international study has found a clear link between extended working hours and rising obesity rates across several countries.
The research suggests that spending more time at work often means less physical activity, especially for office-based employees who remain seated for long periods.
According to researchers, this reduced movement plays a major role in gradual weight gain over time.
The study also highlights the impact of workplace stress on body weight.
Long working hours increase stress levels, which in turn raise cortisol—a hormone closely linked to weight gain.
Researchers noted that higher stress often leads to increased food consumption, particularly unhealthy eating patterns, further contributing to obesity.
Expert insights on work-life balance
Australian lead author Dr. Pradeepa Corell-Gaidara explained that maintaining a balanced lifestyle plays a crucial role in overall health.
She noted that people with better work-life balance tend to experience lower stress levels, follow more nutritious diets, and engage in greater physical activity.
These combined habits significantly improve overall well-being and help manage body weight more effectively.
The international study analyzed data from 33 OECD countries, including the United Kingdom, covering the period from 1990 to 2022.
It compared annual working hours with obesity rates across different regions, identifying a consistent pattern between longer working hours and higher obesity levels.
Countries such as the United States, Mexico, and Colombia—where people typically work longer hours—were found to have higher obesity rates.
Researchers also highlighted that even minor changes in working hours could have measurable health benefits.
The study found that reducing annual working hours by just 1 percent could lead to an average 0.16 percent decrease in obesity rates.
Experts say this shows that even small improvements in work-life balance can have a meaningful impact on public health.
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