Finland could save hundreds of millions euros annually through natural solutions for depression, diabetes, and asthma treatment

A recent study conducted by the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) and the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), funded by Sitra, suggests that Finland could benefit by hundreds of millions of euros annually through natural solutions aimed at combating depression, type 2 diabetes, and asthma treatment. This research reviewed key Nordic studies on the health impacts of nature over the past 20 years and, for the first time, assessed the economic significance of these health benefits using health economics methods.

The study found that a 10% decrease in urban green spaces could increase annual costs related to depression by an estimated €71–150 million and those associated with type 2 diabetes by €67–139 million. Additionally, this reduction could result in a loss of 515 quality-adjusted life years for depression and 660 for diabetes each year.

Moreover, if Finnish people increased their weekly nature visits, asthma medication costs could decrease by €1.7 million—a 1.8% reduction in total asthma medicine expenses. In total, addressing these three conditions could represent economic savings between €140–233 million annually.

Researchers are advocating for a national nature health program in Finland to integrate natural health benefits into social and health services. They emphasize the need for collaboration among municipal authorities, wellness districts, researchers, healthcare professionals, and private service providers. Furthermore, enhancing awareness of nature-related health benefits within healthcare education and practices is crucial.

Overall, there is a pressing need for improved urban planning that prioritizes nature to enhance public health outcomes in Finland, where allergic conditions, asthma, and other diseases are becoming increasingly prevalent due to a lack of contact with diverse natural environments.