Economic consequences of poor dietary choices on physiological health outcomes
Dietary choices and nutritional status profoundly impact the physiological health of an individual that increases the prevalence of obesity and chronic diseases. The economic consequences of these dietary behaviours extend beyond an individual’s health and adversely affect health delivery systems and economic production efficiency. Diets high in saturated fats, sugars, and processed foods are closely associated with obesity and chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.
Impact of poor dietary choices on health
1- Obesity
Obesity, a major health concern worldwide, results from an imbalance between calorie intake and expenditure. Poor dietary habits, such as excessive consumption of high-calorie and nutrient-poor foods, contribute to the development of obesity. Obesity is a risk factor for morbidity causing numerous chronic diseases, creating a significant economic burden due to increased healthcare costs and lost productivity. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes among obese individuals in Pakistan is significantly high with estimates suggesting that up to 60-70% of people with diabetes are either overweight or obese.
2- Chronic debilitating diseases
Chronic and debilitating diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and hypertension, are often diet-related. These conditions require ongoing medical care and can lead to premature death, further escalating healthcare costs and reducing economic productivity. According to the Pakistan Heart Association, approximately 30-40% of all deaths in Pakistan are attributable to cardiovascular diseases. The global rise in such diseases has prompted a critical examination of dietary patterns and their economic implications.
3- Cancers
Dietary habits are implicated in several types of cancer. Diets high in processed meats, red meats, refined sugars, and low in fruits, vegetables, and fiber are associated with an increased risk of various cancers. Obesity, driven by poor dietary habits, increases the risk of several cancers, including breast, colorectal, and endometrial cancers. According to the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, about 26% of the population is overweight, and 9% is obese, contributing to increased cancer risk.
4- Bad general well-being
Nutritional status also affects overall well-being. Nutrient deficiencies can lead to poor mental and physical health, reducing quality of life and economic productivity. Conversely, a balanced diet supports optimal health, enhancing physical and cognitive functions, which are vital for personal and economic well-being.
Economic consequences of poor dietary choices
The economic impact of poor dietary choices is multisided, affecting individuals, healthcare systems, and economies.
Healthcare cost
The treatment of diet-related diseases imposes substantial costs on healthcare systems. In the United States, obesity-related healthcare costs were estimated at $147 billion annually. These costs include direct expenses such as hospital stays, medications, and medical procedures, as well as indirect costs like lessened productivity. A study published in the “Journal of Pakistan Medical Association” reported that the average cost per hospitalization for a cardiovascular event ranges from PKR 50,000 to PKR 200,000. Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and angioplasty are among the most common procedures and the cost for CABG in private hospitals ranges from PKR 300,000 to PKR 1,200,000. Long-term medication for managing CVD, such as antihypertensives, and antiplatelet drugs, also constitutes a substantial part of healthcare costs. Monthly medication costs can range from PKR 2,000 to PKR 10,000 per patient. On the contrary, adopting healthier diets can prevent or delay the onset of chronic diseases, thereby reducing the need for medical interventions and lowering healthcare costs.
Reduced productivity
Chronic diseases and poor nutritional status can lead to decreased work productivity due to illness-related absences and reduced work capacity. This reduction in productivity affects economic output and can hinder economic growth. Diabetes alone imposes a heavy burden on Pakistan’s economy, with annual losses estimated at around $8.96 billion, encompassing both direct healthcare costs and indirect productivity losses. Conversely, better nutrition leads to improved physical and cognitive functions, enhancing productivity and economic output. Healthier employees are more likely to be present and perform better at work, contributing to economic growth.
Social & economic inequality
Poor dietary choices and resulting health outcomes often disproportionately affect low-income populations, exacerbating social and economic inequalities. Limited access to healthy foods, education, and healthcare resources contributes to poorer health outcomes in these groups, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and ill health. Promoting healthy dietary choices across all socioeconomic groups can help reduce health disparities, leading to a more equitable distribution of economic resources.
Implementing healthy dietary choices is crucial for maintaining and enhancing physiological health. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports bodily functions, boosts the immune system, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Consistent healthy eating habits contribute to better energy levels, improved mental health, and general well-being. It is important to make informed food choices, considering both immediate and long-term health impacts, and to adopt a holistic approach that includes regular physical activity and adequate hydration for optimal health outcomes.
Diabetes and Cardiovascular diseases represent a major public health challenge in Pakistan, with a significant portion of the population affected by these conditions. Enhanced awareness, early detection, and management are key to mitigating the burden of these diseases and improving health outcomes in the country.
The Author is MPhil, Assistant Professor Dept of Physiology, United Medical & Dental College, Karachi