Kathmandu. Rising obesity rates in the Asia-Pacific region are driving up health insurance costs. About 1 billion people, or 2 out of 5 adults, are living with overweight or obesity.
According to the Maxis Global Benefits Network (GBN), the rise in obesity is leading to more insurance claims related to chronic diseases than obesity. “Higher medical costs and lower productivity at work are increasing pressure on employers,” the WTW report said.
In many Asia-Pacific markets, obesity is considered a lifestyle problem rather than a chronic disease. This means that most health insurance plans do not cover anti-obesity drugs, treatments, or surgeries. Unless they are prescribed for the relevant medical condition. Government funding remains limited, and health care providers are prioritizing diet and exercise over medical treatment.
Obesity rates have increased in many markets in the region. Vietnam’s obesity rate has reached 37 percent. In Hong Kong, about 1 in 5 adults are overweight and almost half are overweight. Adult obesity rates in Australia and New Zealand have also risen by more than 30 percent.
Obese people are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and heart disease, including high blood pressure and dyslipidemia, Maxis said. Obesity is also associated with sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, fatty liver disease and many types of cancer.
Maxis said these conditions could lead to longer hospital stays, increased medication use and long-term health insurance claims that start earlier in employees’ working lives.
Maxis Insurance claims data shows that Asia ranked second globally for endocrine-related insurance claims paid in 2025. That’s 3.5 percent of the total claim cost.
Diabetes, which is closely linked to obesity, accounts for 39 percent of endocrine-related claims costs.
Heart disease, cancer, musculoskeletal conditions and diabetes are the leading drivers of health insurance claims across Asia Pacific. Employers are also facing increasing levels of absenteeism, attendance and mental health conditions, with many employees becoming high-cost claimants early in their careers.
Research conducted in Indonesia found that obesity can reduce productivity and lead to early retirement. Occupational workers are 2.7 times more likely to be obese than physical workers. –Agency
