Young people who lived with obesity as children are less likely to have jobs or be in school by age 25, according to a new Swedish study presented at the European Congress on Obesity (ECO 2025).
The study found that childhood obesity is linked to higher rates of long-term sick leave and lower rates of work or study later in life. These findings highlight how health problems in early life can affect not just physical well-being, but also a person’s future in the job market and education system.
Comparing Outcomes
Researchers looked at data from over 3,500 people who had been treated for obesity during childhood. They compared these individuals to more than 16,800 people from the general population who were similar in age, gender, and where they lived.
At age 25, just 59% of those with childhood obesity were working or studying. In contrast, 68% of their peers in the general population were either employed or in school.
The two groups had similar numbers of people on parental leave (3% vs. 2%) and in low-paid jobs (both at 22%). But there was a major difference when it came to long-term sick leave. About 8% of those who had obesity as children were not working due to illness, compared to only 2% of the general population.
This means that those who had childhood obesity were four times more likely to be on long-term sick leave by age 25 than their peers.
Obesity Severity Matters
The study also found that the severity of childhood obesity made a difference. People who had class 3 obesity—the most serious level—were nearly three times more likely to be on sick leave or receiving welfare than those who had class 1 obesity, the mildest form.
Dr. Emilia Hagman, who led the study, said the researchers expected more of the childhood obesity group to be in low-paying jobs due to fewer academic qualifications and possible discrimination in the job market. But what stood out instead was how often these individuals were out of work due to health issues.
She explained, “We know that mental health conditions like depression are more common in people who live with obesity. These conditions may explain why some are unable to work.”
Long-Term Effects of Early Obesity
The findings point to long-term consequences for people who experience obesity early in life. It may not only lead to chronic health conditions like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure but also affect career and education opportunities.
Dr. Hagman stressed the need for more awareness and research. “We need to understand the types of health problems that prevent people from working. At the same time, treating obesity early and successfully could reduce these risks.”
More studies are needed to find out if childhood obesity treatment can also improve future chances of employment and education.
Related topics:
- Measles Cases Top 1,000 In The U.S. As Outbreaks Spread In 11 States
- FDA Approves Safer Natural Food Colors From Algae, Minerals, And Flowers
- Government Pulls Funding For Life-Saving Baby Heart Device
