Labour productivity losses from premature death due to alcohol in Spain (2002–2018): Estimation and comparative analysis with tobacco-related estimates

Aim

To estimate premature deaths, years of potential labour productivity lost, and productivity losses attributable to alcohol consumption in Spain (2002–2018) and, compare these losses with those from tobacco consumption.

Methods

Using the human capital approach, data on employment, wages and mortality were analysed from national sources. Alcohol-related mortality risks were drawn from the Spanish Ministry of Health. Labour productivity losses were calculated based on working-age mortality (35–64 years), with adjustments for productivity growth and discount rates. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to validate the findings.

Results

Between 2002 and 2018, premature deaths and productivity losses related to alcohol consumption decreased significantly, with losses declining from 1959 million euros in 2002–936 million euros in 2018, representing a 52.2 % reduction. Although there was also a favourable trend in this area, productivity losses due to tobacco-related deaths amounted to 68.6 %.

Conclusion

This study reveals a marked decline in alcohol-related labour productivity losses in Spain over the analysed period. Nevertheless, tobacco and alcohol continue to pose a greater economic burden, highlighting the need for sustained public health efforts targeting both alcohol and tobacco consumption to mitigate productivity losses.