Could a four-day workweek help combat rising obesity rates?

A new study suggests that cutting working hours could help reduce obesity rates. Researchers found that a 1% drop in annual working time linked to a 0.16% fall in obesity across 33 OECD nations. Campaigners are now pushing for a four-day week to improve public health. Dr. Pradeepa Korale-Gedara led the research, which revealed a clear pattern: countries with longer working hours tend to have higher obesity levels. The findings also showed that people working extended hours were more likely to be obese, possibly due to stress and limited time for exercise.

The 4 Day Week Foundation supports the idea, arguing that shorter weeks would give workers more time for physical activity and healthier habits. They estimate that a four-day week in the UK could lead to around half a million fewer obese people.

However, critics warn that reduced hours might lower incomes for some workers. The study itself does not prove that longer hours directly cause obesity, as factors like income could also play a role. The UK government has already stated it has no plans to enforce a four-day work week on full pay. The research highlights a potential link between working hours and obesity, though further investigation is needed. If adopted, a shorter work week could give employees more time for exercise and better health choices. For now, any shift in policy remains voluntary rather than mandatory.