The Link Between Working Hours and Obesity Rates in OECD Countries

May 11, 2026, 13:21
EuropeHealth

Introduction

A long-term study presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO 2026) looks at the relationship between annual working hours and obesity rates in 33 OECD countries from 1990 to 2022.

Main Body

The research shows a clear link between longer working hours and higher obesity rates. Specifically, the authors emphasized that a 1% decrease in annual working hours is connected to a 0.16% drop in obesity. This happens because people spend less time sitting at desks, which allows for more physical activity and reduces stress-related overeating. Consequently, countries with very long working schedules, such as the United States, Mexico, and Colombia, have higher obesity rates. However, the researchers asserted that this link does not prove that long hours directly cause obesity, as other socio-economic factors are also involved. For example, a 1% increase in GDP per capita is linked to a 0.112% reduction in obesity, while higher urbanization also correlates with lower rates. This suggests that better economic conditions and improved city infrastructure can help people make healthier food choices. Finally, the 2022 data shows huge differences between nations. The United States had the highest adult obesity rate at 41.99%, whereas Japan had the lowest at 5.54%. The United Kingdom reported a rate of 26.8%, and its childhood obesity figures are nearly double those of France and Italy, making the UK a notable exception in Europe.

Conclusion

The study concludes that while longer working hours are linked to higher obesity, the final result is influenced by a complex mix of economic, urban, and cultural factors.

Learning

🚀 Moving Beyond "And" & "But"

At an A2 level, you probably use and, but, and because to connect your ideas. To reach B2, you need Logical Connectors. These are words that tell the reader how two ideas relate to each other more precisely.

⚡ The "Cause and Effect" Upgrade

In the text, we see the word Consequently.

  • A2 style: "People work too much, so they get obese."
  • B2 style: "People work too much; consequently, obesity rates increase."

Why use it? It sounds more professional and shows a direct result of a specific action.

⚖️ The "Contrast" Shift

Instead of always using but, look at how the text uses Whereas.

  • A2 style: "The US has high obesity but Japan has low obesity."
  • B2 style: "The US has the highest rate, whereas Japan has the lowest."

Pro Tip: Use whereas when you are comparing two different things side-by-side to highlight a contrast.

🧠 The "Nuance" Words

B2 speakers don't just say "I think." They use reporting verbs to show how certain they are. Look at these two from the article:

  1. Emphasized: Used when the author wants to make a point very strong. ("The authors emphasized the 1% decrease...")
  2. Asserted: Used when stating a fact or belief confidently, even if others might disagree. ("Researchers asserted that this link does not prove...")

Quick Summary for your Growth:

  • Replace So →\rightarrow Consequently
  • Replace But →\rightarrow Whereas
  • Replace Say →\rightarrow Assert/Emphasize

Vocabulary Learning

obesity (n.)
A medical condition where a person has too much body fat.
Example:The study found that obesity rates are rising worldwide.
relationship (n.)
A connection or association between two things.
Example:There is a strong relationship between diet and health.
decrease (v.)
To become smaller or fewer in amount.
Example:The company plans to decrease its carbon emissions by 20%.
connected (adj.)
Linked or associated with something else.
Example:Her success is connected to her hard work.
schedule (n.)
A plan that lists when things will happen.
Example:He follows a strict work schedule to stay organized.
socio-economic (adj.)
Relating to society and economy together.
Example:Socio-economic factors influence educational opportunities.
GDP (n.)
Gross domestic product, the total value of goods and services produced in a country.
Example:The country's GDP grew by 3% last year.
urbanization (n.)
The process of cities growing and becoming more populated.
Example:Urbanization often leads to increased traffic congestion.
infrastructure (n.)
The basic physical systems that support a society.
Example:Improving infrastructure can boost economic growth.
exception (n.)
A case that does not follow the usual pattern.
Example:The UK is an exception to the trend of rising obesity.
complex (adj.)
Having many parts or aspects; difficult to understand.
Example:The issue is complex and requires careful analysis.
cultural (adj.)
Relating to the customs, beliefs, and practices of a group.
Example:Cultural differences can affect communication styles.
mix (n.)
A combination of different elements.
Example:The recipe is a mix of sweet and savory flavors.
conclude (v.)
To bring something to an end or final decision.
Example:The study concludes that more research is needed.