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Obesity costs Spain €130 billion a year, but losing just 5-10% of weight could save billions
Experts also warn early eating disorders surge in children as young as five, sparking concern
Obesity is costing Spain a staggering €130 billion annually, equivalent to 8% of the country’s GDP and nearly half of its state pension budget, according to a recent report led by the Weber Foundation with Lilly. This figure takes into account not only healthcare expenses but also losses from decreased labour productivity and human capital.The study focused on 18 common health complications linked to excess weight, including heart disease, diabetes, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Promisingly, the report reveals that moderate weight loss between 5-10% among obese individuals could lead to €20 billion in social savings by 2025, with potential savings soaring to €68 billion for losses closer to 20-25%. By 2030, these savings might range from €25 billion to a remarkable €84 billion, underscoring the massive economic and social benefits of tackling obesity. Álvaro Hidalgo, president of the Weber Foundation, emphasises, “The economic burden of obesity is enormous and often hidden, going far beyond direct healthcare costs.”
The report calls for a comprehensive approach, seeing obesity as a complex health and social challenge. Diego Bellido, president of the Spanish Society for the Study of Obesity, stresses that “fighting obesity needs to be a health and social priority.” Meanwhile, Federico Luis Moya of the National Association of People with Obesity highlights the stigma faced by many, pointing out that obesity is a chronic disease severely impacting mobility and psychological well-being for most sufferers.
Meanwhile, a different but related concern is emerging: experts at the 4th Adaner Murcia-UCAM National Congress report a spike in early eating disorders among children as young as five or six. Emilia Hernández, president of Adaner Murcia, remarks, “Cases have increased considerably,” noting that boys now make up a growing share of these young patients.
The association is preparing to provide specialist support funded by the Murcian Health Service to ensure all children needing care can access it, regardless of family income.
Together, these reports underline a pressing need for education, early intervention and long-term investment in Spain’s public health to curb obesity’s cost to society and address the rising tide of eating disorders among its youngest citizens.
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