OP Pohjola reports sharp rise in claims for lifestyle-related illnesses and growing support for sugary-food taxes

OP Pohjola’s latest data reveal that payouts for lifestyle-related illnesses such as type-2 diabetes, heart and vascular disease, sleep apnea and musculoskeletal problems have risen sharply in recent years. The surge in sleep-apnea claims is especially pronounced among men aged 40 to 69, who also exhibit the highest average body-mass index in the country. The insurer commissioned an internet panel survey in May 2026, gathering responses from adults across Finland.

The poll indicates that a sizable share of participants support introducing a sugar tax on confectionery and sugary beverages, as well as a levy on ultra-processed foods. Additional support exists for taxes on saturated fats and salt, though a notable minority opposes any such measures. Younger adults appear most enthusiastic about taxing unhealthy foods. The survey’s overall margin of error is just over three percentage points.