Sweden – Health Issues

What are the most common health issues and diseases in Sweden?

Cardiovascular disease and cancer together account for the greatest share of deaths in Sweden. These conditions dominate the country’s disease burden — a pattern typical of wealthy nations with older populations, though Sweden fares comparatively well in limiting their toll on its citizens.

In 2018, circulatory diseases were responsible for a third of all deaths in Sweden (33%), with cancer following at one quarter (25%). Ischaemic heart disease and stroke were the primary drivers of mortality within the circulatory disease category. Diabetes — affecting approximately 6.9% of the population — is a major underlying contributor to ischaemic heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the most prevalent respiratory condition and is frequently missed in diagnosis. An estimated 500,000 people in Sweden live with the disease, and roughly 3,000 deaths per year are attributed to it. Advancing age and tobacco use are key risk factors for its development.

Despite meaningful levels of cancer incidence, Swedes diagnosed with cancer are less likely to die from it than their counterparts in most other European countries — a reflection of the strength of Sweden’s screening programmes and treatment capabilities.

Among Swedish consumers, mental health conditions — encompassing burnout, depression, and anxiety — are among the most commonly reported health concerns in recent survey data. This pattern is broadly consistent with the wider Nordic region, where self-awareness around psychological wellbeing tends to be high.

Health outcomes in Sweden are not uniform across society. Education level, employment status, and country of birth all exert a strong influence on an individual’s overall health. Expats arriving from outside Europe may therefore bring different baseline health profiles and are encouraged to discuss their individual circumstances with a doctor when first registering with a healthcare provider.

Is Sweden considered a healthy country? How do health outcomes compare internationally?

By virtually every available metric, Sweden stands among the world’s leading nations in population health. Health standards in Sweden have improved progressively over time and compare very favourably with international benchmarks. Those seeking the most current data should consult the WHO Country Profile for Sweden or Statistics Sweden (SCB).

Life expectancy in Sweden reached 84.1 years in 2024 — 85.6 years for women and 82.6 years for men. Sweden’s ranking among the 195 countries monitored for life expectancy climbed to 7th place in 2024, placing it well above the WHO’s global average estimate of approximately 73 years.

The difference in life expectancy between men and women in Sweden is considerably narrower than the EU norm — just 3.5 years compared to an EU average of 5.6 years. Similarly, inequalities in life expectancy related to educational attainment are less pronounced in Sweden than in most peer countries. This relative evenness of health outcomes is one of the distinguishing hallmarks of the Swedish system.

Sweden also records very low antibiotic prescribing rates in primary care, reflecting a comparatively strong institutional awareness of patient safety and the dangers of antimicrobial resistance. Thirty-day survival rates following acute myocardial infarction are exceptionally strong within the OECD, while cancer mortality rates are exceptionally low.

Infant mortality stood at 2.1 per 1,000 live births in 2020, down dramatically from 22 per 1,000 in 1950 — one of the lowest figures anywhere in the world. Sweden’s healthcare system earns high marks for quality and patient satisfaction, although workforce shortages and fragmentation of care remain acknowledged difficulties.

The EU’s 2022 State of Health report notes that older people in Sweden are less likely to report living with chronic conditions than the EU average — a telling indicator of population-wide health. For the latest comparative statistics, consult the EU State of Health in the EU country profiles.

What infectious diseases or environmental health risks should expats be aware of in Sweden?

Sweden presents a low level of risk for most infectious diseases. Drinking water from the tap is safe across the entire country, food safety standards are stringent, and the risk from vector-borne diseases is modest by global comparison. Nonetheless, a handful of specific hazards are worth understanding before you arrive — particularly if outdoor activities in woodland or rural settings are part of your plans.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) and Lyme disease represent the most relevant vector-borne concerns for those living in or visiting Sweden. Ticks inhabit forests, grasslands, and coastal islands, with concentrations particularly notable in southern Sweden and the Stockholm archipelago. Lyme disease is encountered more frequently of the two, while TBE occurs less often but tends to cause more serious illness. A TBE vaccine is available and is advisable for those who expect to spend substantial time outdoors in rural risk areas — consult a healthcare provider or travel health clinic to determine whether vaccination is right for you.

Tuberculosis (TB) is uncommon but merits contextual awareness. According to the Public Health Agency of Sweden, TB cases among immigrants rose from around 200 in 1989 to a peak of 750 in 2015, while cases among Sweden-born individuals fell from 400 in 1989 to just 50 in 2016. If you are relocating from a country with a higher TB burden, a health screening may be suggested when you first register with a Swedish primary care centre (vårdcentral).

HIV is effectively managed within Sweden’s healthcare infrastructure. Between 2006 and 2016, the number of people entering treatment for HIV grew notably — a trend the National Board of Health and Welfare attributed largely to increased immigration from countries where HIV is more prevalent. Testing is straightforward and widely available through primary care centres.

Air quality across Sweden is generally very good, with industrial pollution levels low in most parts of the country. Seasonal pollen, however, can be a significant issue, especially during spring when birch trees release large quantities of pollen. Those prone to hay fever or asthma should plan their medication needs ahead of the spring season and consult a doctor if necessary.

No vaccinations are required to enter Sweden. The Public Health Agency of Sweden (Folkhälsomyndigheten) recommends maintaining up-to-date routine immunisations. Before your move, review the travel health guidance published by your home country’s public health authority for any additional recommendations relevant to your personal medical history.

Is smoking common in Sweden, and what are the laws around it?

Sweden has an exceptionally low rate of cigarette smoking relative to most other nations. The share of people smoking tobacco on a daily basis has declined steadily since 2004. By 2024, only 5.4% of the population aged 16–84 reported smoking every day, and in 2022 Sweden recorded the lowest cigarette smoking prevalence of any country across Europe at 5.8%.

A distinctly Swedish product known as snus — a moist, pasteurised oral tobacco tucked beneath the upper lip — is central to understanding this picture. Smoked tobacco has been largely replaced in Sweden by snus, which is generally regarded as less harmful than combustible tobacco. Use of snus overtook cigarette smoking among men as far back as 1996. In 2024, 22% of men and 10% of women aged 16–84 reported daily snus use. Snus is culturally familiar and broadly accepted in Swedish society, though public health authorities caution that it carries its own health risks, including cardiovascular effects and nicotine dependence.

Vaping and e-cigarettes are legal and their use is growing. In 2024, 4% of individuals aged 16–84 reported using e-cigarettes, with use having doubled between 2022 and 2024 — a trend concentrated primarily among young people.

Sweden’s tobacco legislation is among the toughest in Europe. The country was an early adopter of smoke-free workplaces, and the scope of non-smoking environments has expanded considerably since then. Sports facilities, bus stops, restaurant terraces, and bar areas — both indoors and outdoors — are now designated smoke-free zones. The outdoor hospitality restrictions, introduced under amendments to the Tobacco Act around 2019, go considerably further than comparable rules in many European countries. Expats arriving from Mediterranean countries or elsewhere where smoking on outdoor terraces is customary may need some time to adjust.

Despite the overall downward trend in smoking, notable social disparities persist. Daily smoking is nearly four times more prevalent among people with pre-secondary education (11%) than among those with post-secondary qualifications (3%). The sale of tobacco and nicotine products to anyone under 18 is prohibited. For full details on current legislation, visit the Public Health Agency of Sweden’s tobacco pages.

Is obesity or poor diet a significant health concern in Sweden?

Although Sweden has a strong association with outdoor living and wholesome Scandinavian food traditions, overweight and obesity have emerged as a growing public health challenge — echoing patterns found throughout much of Europe and the industrialised world more broadly.

Carrying excess weight raises the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and various cancers. As of 2022, half of Sweden’s population was classified as either overweight or obese. More specifically, an estimated 31.1% of Swedes are physically inactive, 59.2% are overweight, and 22% are obese. These figures are broadly consistent with EU averages, though they remain below the rates seen in countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom.

Traditional Swedish cooking features nutritious elements — fish, root vegetables, rye bread, and fermented dairy products among them. However, dietary habits in contemporary Sweden, particularly in urban centres, have shifted considerably towards processed and convenience foods and high sugar intake, in line with trends observed globally.

Diabetes, affecting around 6.9% of the Swedish population, is a significant driver of cardiovascular disease. If current trajectories persist, it is projected that 10.3% of the population could be living with diabetes by 2050.

The Swedish government and the Public Health Agency of Sweden promote physical activity and sound nutrition as cornerstones of national public health policy. A strong culture of outdoor recreation — cycling, hiking, and skiing in particular — persists across the country, and many workplaces actively encourage staff wellbeing. Expats are well positioned to take advantage of Sweden’s vast natural landscapes, which offer year-round opportunities to stay active.

What are the mental health attitudes and services like in Sweden?

Conversations about mental health are increasingly common and accepted in Sweden, and the stigma historically associated with seeking psychological help has diminished considerably over recent decades. While Sweden scores highly on global wellbeing indices, the underlying data reveal growing levels of anxiety and stress — most acutely among younger generations.

Over the past decade, the proportion of the Swedish population (aged 16–84) reporting worry or anxiety has climbed from 31% in 2011 to 44% in 2024. Most people describe their difficulties as mild, though 8% report experiencing severe symptoms.

Across all age groups, women are more likely than men to report these symptoms, with particularly elevated rates among young women aged 16–29. Severe worry or anxiety was reported by 23% of young women in 2024, compared with just 9% in 2011. Among young men, a similar trajectory is evident — rising from 5% in 2011 to 10% in 2024.

Mental health services in Sweden are delivered predominantly through the publicly funded healthcare system, administered at the regional level. Accessing specialist psychological or psychiatric care typically requires a referral from a primary care centre (vårdcentral), and waiting times for such services can be considerable — a widely acknowledged pressure point within the Swedish system. This stands in contrast to countries such as the Netherlands or Germany, where private psychological care is more seamlessly integrated into insurance frameworks and is generally faster to access.

Private mental health services exist in Sweden’s larger cities and are accessible without a referral, though they involve greater personal expense. For expats who are used to more immediate access to therapy or counselling in their home countries, private options can serve as a practical bridge while waiting for public appointments. Some Swedish employers also operate Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) that include counselling — it is worth enquiring with your employer when you start.

Sweden experiences pronounced seasonal differences in daylight, and the prolonged darkness of winter can affect mood and energy levels for many residents, including expats. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and milder low-mood symptoms associated with winter are well recognised, and light therapy lamps are both widely available and commonly used. Raising these concerns early with a GP is advisable — Swedish primary care practitioners are well acquainted with supporting patients through seasonal mental health challenges.

The Public Health Agency of Sweden has been tasked with developing and coordinating national efforts to promote mental wellbeing and prevent mental ill-health across the population, including the collection and dissemination of emerging evidence in this field. The agency’s resources are available at Folkhälsomyndigheten’s mental health pages.

Are there any health risks specific to expats living in Sweden?

Settling in a new country always entails a period of health adjustment, and Sweden is no different. Although it presents a low-risk environment overall, there are particular areas where newcomers may face challenges that are worth anticipating.

Adapting to the climate: In central and northern parts of Sweden especially, winters are lengthy, cold, and characterised by very limited daylight. Vitamin D deficiency is a genuine health concern, as meaningful sun exposure is unavailable for several months of the year. Many people living in Sweden — including long-settled expats — take vitamin D supplements through the winter months. This is especially relevant for those arriving from sunnier climates. Ask a doctor whether supplementation is appropriate for your situation.

Tick-borne diseases: As discussed above, Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) are present in Sweden, with the highest concentrations in forested and coastal zones. Expats who enjoy hiking, camping, or gardening should take appropriate precautions — wearing clothes that cover the arms and legs, applying insect repellent, and conducting thorough tick checks after outdoor time. The TBE vaccine can be obtained through primary care centres and pharmacies.

Registering with the healthcare system: One of the most practically important early steps for any new arrival is registering with a local primary care centre (vårdcentral). Once you have been registered with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) and assigned a personal identity number (personnummer), you are entitled to access publicly funded healthcare on the same basis as Swedish residents. Without a personnummer, your access to public services will be restricted, making adequate private health or travel insurance essential during any transitional period.

Health outcomes in Sweden are influenced by country of birth, among other factors. Expats may encounter additional pressures including language barriers (though English is widely spoken in healthcare settings), social isolation, and cultural adaptation — all of which can have tangible effects on both physical and mental health. Investing early in building a social network and making use of community support structures can make a meaningful difference to your overall wellbeing.

Cancer screening programmes: Sweden operates national screening initiatives for certain cancers, including breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer. Once entered into the system, eligible residents are generally contacted automatically with invitations. Expats who have not previously taken part in such programmes may wish to review their screening history with a GP to confirm they are appropriately up to date.

Where can expats find reliable health information and services in Sweden?

Sweden’s public health infrastructure is well structured, and a number of official bodies publish trustworthy, regularly updated health information — with substantial content available in English.

1. The Public Health Agency of Sweden (Folkhälsomyndigheten): This government body holds responsibility for public health, including disease surveillance and disease prevention initiatives. Their website at folkhalsomyndigheten.se provides English-language sections on infectious diseases, vaccination schedules, and population health data.
2. The Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen): This authority oversees the regulation and development of healthcare and social services in Sweden. You can find them at socialstyrelsen.se/en.
3. 1177 Vårdguiden: Sweden’s national health information and telephone advice service, accessible via 1177.se. Dialling 1177 connects you around the clock with a registered nurse who can provide guidance in Swedish. The website also offers some content in English and additional languages. This service is generally the recommended first port of call for non-emergency health queries.
4. Your local primary care centre (Vårdcentral): After securing your personnummer, register with the nearest vårdcentral. This is your entry point into all public health services, including referrals, preventive care, vaccinations, and screening programmes.
5. The WHO Country Profile for Sweden: For internationally comparable health statistics, the WHO’s Sweden country profile is a dependable resource. Figures are updated periodically so it is worth reviewing regularly.
6. Your home country’s travel health authority: Before you relocate, review the official expat or travel health guidance from your home country’s public health body for advice tailored to your vaccination history and individual health background.

Health guidance, vaccination recommendations, and administrative procedures evolve over time. Always verify current information through official Swedish channels — particularly the Public Health Agency and 1177 — both before and after your move, rather than relying exclusively on third-party or community sources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Issues in Sweden

Is Sweden a safe country from a health perspective for people moving from abroad?

Yes. Sweden is regarded as one of the world’s safest countries from a public health standpoint. Tap water is safe to drink, food safety standards are rigorous, and rates of communicable disease are very low. The primary health risks are lifestyle-related — such as cardiovascular disease and mental health conditions — and are well managed within the Swedish healthcare system.

Do I need any vaccinations before moving to Sweden?

No vaccinations are legally required to enter Sweden. It is nevertheless advisable to be up to date with routine immunisations such as MMR, tetanus, and hepatitis B. If you intend to spend time in rural or forested environments, ask a healthcare provider about the tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine. For personalised guidance, consult the Public Health Agency of Sweden’s vaccination information and your home country’s travel health authority.

How do I access healthcare in Sweden as an expat?

Once you have obtained a Swedish personal identity number (personnummer) from the Tax Agency (Skatteverket), you can register with a local primary care centre (vårdcentral) and access Sweden’s publicly funded healthcare on equal terms with residents. Prior to receiving your personnummer, ensure you are covered by adequate private health or travel insurance. For health advice at any hour, you can call 1177 to be connected to a registered nurse.

What is the mental health situation like in Sweden, and is help available in English?

Self-reported worry or anxiety has risen noticeably in Sweden over the past decade, climbing from 31% of the population in 2011 to 44% in 2024. Public mental health services are available but waiting times for specialist care can be lengthy. Private therapy is accessible in larger cities, and a number of practitioners offer sessions in English. Many expat networks in Sweden maintain directories of English-speaking therapists. Your GP can advise on referral pathways and available options.

Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) a real concern in Sweden?

Yes, particularly in central and northern parts of Sweden where daylight in midwinter may amount to only a few hours daily. Low mood, fatigue, and poor concentration are commonly reported symptoms. Light therapy lamps are widely available and frequently used, and vitamin D supplementation is often recommended. If symptoms persist, speak to your GP — Swedish primary care providers have considerable experience supporting patients with seasonal mental health difficulties.

What is snus, and will I encounter it in Sweden?

Snus is a pasteurised oral tobacco product placed under the upper lip, which has largely replaced cigarette smoking in Sweden. In 2024, 22% of men and 10% of women aged 16–84 reported using snus daily. It is deeply embedded in Swedish culture and widely visible in shops and workplaces. Although Sweden’s cigarette smoking rate is among Europe’s lowest, overall nicotine product consumption remains significant once snus is factored in. Snus is not commercially available in most other EU countries.

Are there ticks in Sweden, and how serious is the risk?

Yes, ticks are prevalent across Swedish forests, meadows, and coastal zones, especially during spring and summer. They can transmit Lyme disease — the more common of the tick-borne infections — and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). TBE risk is highest around the Stockholm archipelago and the south-east coast. When in wooded areas, wear long-sleeved clothing, apply insect repellent, and inspect your skin carefully after spending time outdoors. A TBE vaccine is available and recommended for those regularly visiting high-risk environments.

How does Sweden’s obesity rate compare internationally?

As of 2022, half of Sweden’s population was classified as either overweight or obese — broadly in line with the EU average but considerably lower than countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom. Sweden’s public health agencies actively promote physical activity and good nutrition, and the country’s culture of outdoor recreation — from cycling and hiking to skiing — creates ample scope for an active way of life.