The cost of physical inactivity to health systems and society

Globally, physical inactivity is estimated to cost INT$ 54 billion in direct health care, in 2013, of which 57% is incurred by the public sector and an additional INT$ 14 billion is attributable to lost productivity (17). Estimates from both high-income, as well as low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) indicate that between 1–3% of national health care expenditures are attributable to physical inactivity (18). These estimates are recognized to be conservative due to limitations in available data and the exclusion of costs associated with mental health and musculoskeletal conditions. Further, the costs to society outside of the health system, such as potential environmental benefits from increased walking, cycling and use of public transport, and an associated reduction in the use of fossil fuel, are not yet included in a total impact assessment.

Failure to recognize and invest in physical activity as a priority within NCD prevention and treatment represents a missed opportunity. Ongoing inaction will see the costs of physical inactivity continue to rise, contributing to a further negative impact on health systems, the environment, economic development, community well-being, and quality of life for all.

source: Global action plan on physical activity 2018–2030: more active people for a healthier world. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2018. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.