[Marsh.]

Originally Posted by Vicky.

Tbh, obese people cost the NHS WAY less to begin with, given they die earlier than the rest of the population. Same with smokers.

Being 'healthy' and aging to 100 or something costs a ridiculous amount..given theres generally 24/7 care required by that point. Obese people and smokers are not the drain on the NHS that people think they are. Even if they get gastric bands or whatever..they still cost much much less than someone who lives a healthy life.

But, comparatively, you have someone who is not in hospital much of their life, paying taxes and then requiring NHS help later on in life.

Compared to someone who has health complications due to lifestyle choices in and out of hospital throughout their short time and not paying as much into the system in their shorter life but requiring a lot out of it.

I don't think one is the "drain" really it's more swings and roundabouts.