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.