A new study has called on the UK to introduce a four-day working week with full pay, linking longer work hours to higher obesity rates. The research demonstrates that cutting working time can contribute significantly to weight management and overall health.
Presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Istanbul, the international study analyzed data from 33 OECD countries between 1990 and 2022. It revealed that countries like the US, Mexico, and Colombia, where people work longer annual hours, also suffer from higher obesity prevalence. Specifically, a 1% reduction in annual working hours corresponded to a 0.16% drop in obesity rates.
Dr. Pradeepa Korale-Gedara from the University of Queensland, Australia, explained, “When people achieve a better balance between work and life, they experience less stress, consume more nutritious food, and engage in more physical activities.”
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James Reeves, campaign manager at the 4 Day Week Foundation, emphasized the potential benefits for the UK: “A four-day week on full pay could dramatically reduce obesity by giving millions the time needed to break unhealthy habits and adopt healthier lifestyles. The traditional five-day, nine-to-five workweek is outdated and ripe for change.”
Psychologist Dr. Rita Fontinha from the University of Reading added that long working hours or juggling multiple jobs leave little energy for cooking, often leading to reliance on processed or packaged foods. “Reducing working hours could encourage better dietary choices, more exercise, and improved sleep—key factors for healthier societies,” she said.
However, a spokesperson for the Labour Party government clarified, “We will not mandate a four-day workweek with five days’ pay. Nevertheless, under the Employment Rights Act, we are making it easier for employees to request flexible working arrangements.”
As debates continue, the findings highlight the urgent need to rethink traditional work structures to promote public health and well-being.