Our research

Health economics is characterised by the application of economic theories and methods on issues concerning health. Our research covers the relationship between economic factors and individuals’ lifestyle factors, and health-related behaviours, where physical activity is a key aspect. This could include the effect of changing physical activity on health economic outcomes such as quality of life and labour market participation, as well as the health economic consequences of a sedentary lifestyle.

The research group also have a special interest in economic evaluations of health interventions to, for example, promote physical activity. Here we estimate the value of intervention compared to alternative interventions, also known as cost-effectiveness analysis. This type of information is critical for decision-makers and healthcare providers in order to use society’s scarce resources in an efficient and transparent manner.

Aims

• Study the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle on health economic outcomes

• Support decision-making by conducting (model-based) economic evaluations

• Investigate how physical activity interventions affect societal inequalities in health and wealth

Impact

The research highlights the wider consequences of a sedentary lifestyle and how physical activity can be promoted in a cost-effective manner. However, health interventions generally impact societal inequalities, and our research will develop tools for monitoring such consequences.

How our research contributes to CoPARLU

We contribute with expertise in economic evaluations (cost-effectiveness analyses) and register-based studies and provide a health economic perspective to physical activity.