Iceland – Health Issues

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

As with most affluent nations, Iceland’s greatest health burden stems from non-communicable conditions. Together, cardiovascular diseases and cancer account for more than half of all deaths in the country, a pattern consistent with trends seen throughout the developed world. Despite the significance of these conditions, Iceland’s robust investment in preventive medicine and primary care has produced outcomes that are notably better than those of many EU neighbours.

The incidence and prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Iceland falls below the EU average — the product of sustained commitment to prevention and early intervention over many decades. Coronary artery disease was historically the foremost driver of death and disability in Iceland, though in recent years malignant disease has moved ahead to claim that distinction.

Iceland’s cancer prevalence is somewhat above average internationally, though this is in part a reflection of improved survival rates rather than simply higher rates of disease — a testament to the quality of oncological services available. Cancer screening programmes covering breast, bowel and cervical cancers operate at rates broadly comparable to the EU average.

Neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, represent a growing area of concern. Deaths attributable to Alzheimer’s disease rose by 16.9% in Iceland between 2005 and 2015, and the country’s relatively small, genetically homogeneous population may heighten its susceptibility. That same genetic uniformity has, however, made Iceland an invaluable setting for medical research: the Reykjavík-based genetics company deCODE has sequenced the genomes of thousands of Icelanders and identified genes such as TM2D3 and ABCA7 as risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

Respiratory conditions — including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia and asthma — also rank among the principal causes of illness and death. Diabetes is present in the population but is managed to a comparatively high standard: Iceland benefits from lower diabetes prevalence than many similar countries, underpinned by a nurse-led primary care model in which recent assessments found that 70% of patients achieved treatment results consistent with clinical guidelines.

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

Iceland is consistently placed among the world’s healthiest nations. According to Statistics Iceland, life expectancy in 2024 reached 80.9 years for men and 84.3 years for women — figures that sit comfortably above the global average and align closely with those of other Nordic countries.

Across the Nordic region in 2024, life expectancy ranged from 82.3 to 84.1 years. Sweden recorded the highest figure at 84.1 years, while Iceland’s 82.8 years placed it alongside Norway at 83.3 years in the middle of that range. These values are among the highest on earth and significantly exceed the OECD average of approximately 80 years.

Infant mortality offers another useful lens through which to assess population health. Iceland’s infant mortality rate is among the very lowest worldwide, surpassed only by Andorra and Finland — a finding that reflects the high calibre of maternity and neonatal care available. By comparison, countries including France, Germany and the Netherlands all record higher infant mortality rates than Iceland.

Iceland’s per capita health expenditure exceeds that of most EU member states, and this investment is reflected in the quality of health outcomes the country achieves. A universal public health system gives residents access to the majority of services at a subsidised rate. Preventable hospital admissions for chronic conditions are below the EU average, pointing to effective community-level management of long-term illness.

Readers seeking the most current data are encouraged to consult the Statistics Iceland website or the WHO Iceland country data page directly, as these figures are updated on a regular basis.

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

The risk of contracting infectious disease in Iceland is low by any international measure. The country is free from malaria, dengue fever and the array of vector-borne illnesses associated with warmer regions, and its food and water safety standards rank among the finest globally. Tap water in Iceland is drawn from springs, glaciers and natural underground sources, and is safe to consume across the entire country without any need for filtering or purification.

The most frequently encountered infectious health concern is seasonal respiratory illness, most notably influenza. Iceland’s Directorate of Health tracks the annual influenza season closely, and vaccination is advised for all residents — particularly those in higher-risk categories. The vaccinations recommended for those living in Iceland are the same standard immunisations found in most national schedules; no specialised travel vaccines are necessary.

Air quality in Iceland is outstanding by global standards. Residents are exposed to ambient particulate matter (PM2.5) at a concentration of just 5.5 micrograms per cubic metre, against an OECD average of 11.2 micrograms. That said, Iceland’s volcanic terrain introduces a localised hazard: eruptions and persistent geothermal activity can release sulphur dioxide and other gases into the air, a risk that has been especially relevant on the Reykjanes Peninsula, which has experienced considerable volcanic activity in recent years. When eruptions occur or gas emissions reach elevated levels, the Icelandic Meteorological Office and the Directorate of Health issue public health advisories.

Iceland’s geothermal pools and hot springs are enjoyed widely, but they carry a small risk of bacterial infection if hygienic practices are not maintained. Regulated public facilities operate under strict oversight, whereas wild or unsupervised hot springs offer less certainty. Expats accustomed to rigorous food safety environments will find Iceland’s standards reassuringly familiar.

Prior to relocating, review the travel health guidance published by your home country’s relevant authority — such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) — and confirm that your routine vaccinations are current. Iceland’s Directorate of Health also publishes up-to-date information on infectious disease risks and immunisation guidance.

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

Iceland has achieved considerable reductions in smoking rates over recent decades, and the prevailing public attitude toward tobacco is largely negative. Legislation has been a key engine of this shift. Since June 2007, smoking has been prohibited in restaurants, cafés, bars and nightclubs — a change that was broadly welcomed: the majority of Icelanders supported the ban, even at a time when close to one in four residents smoked.

Since 2007, Iceland has extended its tobacco restrictions further. The country acceded to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in 2005, and has subsequently introduced smoke-free public spaces, near-blanket prohibitions on tobacco advertising, and mandatory health warnings on tobacco packaging. Smoking is also forbidden in workplaces, schools, healthcare settings and within a prescribed distance of the entrances to public buildings.

This framework closely parallels the approach taken in countries such as Ireland, Norway and New Zealand, where similarly comprehensive indoor smoking bans have been in operation for a comparable period. The use of vaping products and nicotine pouches has increased, especially among younger age groups, and Iceland’s Directorate of Health has conducted annual monitoring of tobacco, e-cigarette and tobacco-free nicotine pouch use in the adult population since 2014. Regulations covering vaping have been strengthened in recent years to align with European norms. Overall, smoking prevalence has declined across Iceland.

Expats arriving from countries with more lenient smoking cultures will need to adapt to Iceland’s restrictions — outdoor smoking in designated spaces is the standard practice in urban settings. Those relocating from countries with equally stringent frameworks, such as Ireland or Australia, will find the system straightforward to navigate.

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

Obesity is acknowledged as a public health challenge in Iceland, with rates that edge slightly above international norms. According to OECD Health at a Glance 2025 data, self-reported obesity stands at 21% in Iceland — marginally higher than the OECD average of 19%. The elevated prevalence of overweight and obesity has drawn particular attention among adolescents, where data from European health surveys have identified scope for improvement.

Individuals with lower educational attainment are more likely to be both obese and to smoke, a pattern that mirrors the health inequality dynamics observed across Europe more broadly. Public health initiatives in Iceland target nutrition, physical activity and healthy weight maintenance, with particular focus channelled through schools and primary care.

The traditional Icelandic diet was built around fish, lamb, dairy products and root vegetables — a nutritionally solid foundation shaped by the island’s natural environment. Modern eating habits have shifted markedly toward processed foods, and this transition is visible in the obesity statistics. Nevertheless, fish continues to feature prominently in the Icelandic diet, and the country’s ready supply of high-quality fresh fish, lamb and dairy represents a genuine dietary advantage relative to many other nations.

Physical activity levels in Iceland are comparatively high by European standards, supported by a robust culture of outdoor recreation, swimming and regular gym use. Iceland’s geothermal pools — present in virtually every town — function as community health infrastructure and attract users throughout the year. Public health campaigns coordinated by the Directorate of Health promote physical activity as a central preventive strategy against both obesity and mental health difficulties.

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

Awareness of mental health has grown considerably in Iceland over the past ten years, and people are generally more willing to seek support than in many other countries. Stigma persists to some degree, particularly among older generations and in more remote communities, but sustained public awareness campaigns and a deeply embedded culture of community solidarity have helped make conversations about psychological wellbeing more commonplace.

Seasonal mood disturbance is a well-recognised and widely discussed health concern in Iceland. The country’s extreme swings in daylight — from near-perpetual summer sunshine to the brief, dark days of midwinter — affect a significant proportion of the population, including people who have lived in Iceland their entire lives. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and a generalised lowering of mood during winter months are commonly reported, and this reality is woven into everyday Icelandic life. Light therapy lamps are widely available and commonly used, and GPs have substantial experience in managing seasonal mood conditions.

Mental health services are incorporated within Iceland’s public health system, though the level of access can vary by location. Family doctors at primary care centres serve as the first point of contact and can refer patients to specialist psychiatric or psychological services when needed. Waiting times for public psychology services can be considerable, particularly beyond Reykjavík — a challenge that echoes the pressures experienced within universal healthcare systems in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and Iceland’s Nordic neighbours.

Private mental health provision — including psychologists and psychotherapists — is available and more easily accessible within the capital. Some practitioners in Reykjavík offer services in languages other than Icelandic, but the availability of non-Icelandic-language mental health support diminishes significantly outside the city, which may be a meaningful barrier for recently arrived expats still adapting to their new surroundings.

Research suggests that only one third of Icelandic patients living with chronic conditions feel equipped to manage their own health independently, indicating that self-management support — including for those dealing with mental health conditions — remains an area the system continues to develop. The Directorate of Health website offers guidance on mental health resources, and Reykjavík’s community services encompass a number of support organisations.

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

A number of health challenges are especially pertinent to those who have recently arrived from abroad. The most frequently encountered relate to Iceland’s distinctive climate, its extreme light environment, and the practical realities of navigating an unfamiliar healthcare system.

• Vitamin D deficiency: Iceland’s position at high northern latitudes means that UVB sunlight is scarce for much of the year. Vitamin D deficiency is a common finding among residents and is particularly pronounced in individuals with darker skin, whose capacity to synthesise vitamin D from sunlight is reduced at such latitudes. Supplementation is a standard recommendation, and GPs frequently check vitamin D levels as part of an initial health assessment for new patients.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): The sharp seasonal changes in daylight present an adjustment challenge for almost every newcomer. Preparing ahead of the first winter — with light therapy equipment, deliberate social engagement, regular outdoor activity, and GP support if warranted — is strongly advisable.
• Volcanic and geothermal hazards: Expats residing on or near the Reykjanes Peninsula should become familiar with volcanic activity alert systems. The Icelandic Meteorological Office (vedur.is) provides live updates on gas emissions and eruption risk.
• Cold weather and weather-related injuries: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable and can be extreme. Wind chill, icy surfaces and rapid weather deterioration pose real hazards to those not accustomed to subarctic conditions. Investing in appropriate clothing and footwear is essential.
• Healthcare registration: All residents in Iceland must register with the National Registry (Þjóðskrá). Once registered and issued with an Icelandic identification number (kennitala), expats become eligible for coverage under the national health insurance scheme (Sjúkratryggingar Íslands). Registering promptly with a local GP at a primary health care centre (heilsugæsla) should be treated as a priority upon arrival.
• Insurance gaps: Until registration and public health coverage are in place, expats should carry comprehensive private health insurance. EU/EEA nationals can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) during the transitional period, though the scope of coverage has defined limits.

Those arriving from tropical or subtropical regions may also benefit from a general health check, in particular to assess vitamin and mineral levels, given that both dietary habits and sun exposure will differ substantially from what they have previously experienced.

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

Iceland’s official health infrastructure is well developed, and several authoritative online resources are available to newly arrived residents. The following are the most important sources for expats to familiarise themselves with:

• Directorate of Health Iceland (Landlæknir): Iceland’s principal public health authority, covering vaccination programmes, infectious disease surveillance, infection prevention, antibiotic resistance guidance, health statistics and public health indicators. A substantial portion of the site is available in English.
• Icelandic Health Insurance (Sjúkratryggingar Íslands): The national health insurance body, responsible for administering health coverage for residents and overseeing reimbursement of medical expenses.
• Statistics Iceland (Hagstofa Íslands): Publishes annual data on life expectancy, mortality and a broad range of public health indicators.
• WHO Iceland Country Profile: The World Health Organization’s data portal for Iceland, offering internationally standardised health statistics covering life expectancy, causes of death and health system performance.
• Icelandic Meteorological Office (Veðurstofa Íslands): An essential resource for tracking volcanic activity, air quality warnings and severe weather alerts — all of which carry direct implications for personal health.
• Primary Health Care Centres (Heilsugæslur): Local GP practices are the starting point for most non-emergency healthcare needs in Iceland. A comprehensive directory is available through the Directorate of Health website.
• Landspítali University Hospital: Iceland’s foremost hospital, situated in Reykjavík, handles specialist and emergency care. Patient information, including guidance for those who do not speak Icelandic, is available on the hospital’s website.

Health guidelines, vaccination recommendations and healthcare costs are subject to change. Both before and after relocating, verify current requirements and figures directly with official Icelandic sources. For pre-departure travel health advice, consult your home country’s relevant health authority — such as the ECDC for those based in Europe, or the equivalent government body in your country of origin.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Issues in Iceland

Is Iceland’s tap water safe to drink?

Yes. Tap water in Iceland is sourced from glaciers, springs and natural underground reserves, and is regarded as some of the purest in the world. In most parts of the country it is not treated with chlorine and needs no filtration whatsoever. Residents and visitors can drink from the tap with complete confidence anywhere in Iceland, including in rural areas.

Do I need any vaccinations before moving to Iceland?

No specialised vaccinations are required for Iceland. The country has no endemic tropical diseases, malaria or vector-borne illnesses. Ensuring that your standard routine immunisations — such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), tetanus, diphtheria and seasonal influenza — are current is all that is necessary. Consult the Directorate of Health or your home country’s travel health service for the latest guidance before departing.

How common is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in Iceland?

SAD and winter low mood are reported widely in Iceland, even among those who have lived there all their lives. Midwinter in Reykjavík brings fewer than five hours of daylight around the solstice, while midsummer brings almost continuous light. Light therapy, outdoor exercise and maintaining an active social life are the coping strategies most commonly employed. Anyone who has concerns about their mood should speak to a GP promptly after registering with a local health centre.

How do I access healthcare in Iceland as an expat?

After registering with the National Registry and receiving your Icelandic identification number (kennitala), you become eligible for cover under the national health insurance scheme (Sjúkratryggingar Íslands). You should then register with your nearest primary health care centre (heilsugæsla) to access GP services. Before full registration is complete, EU/EEA nationals may use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while those from outside the EU/EEA should hold private health insurance to bridge any gap in coverage.

Is mental health support available in English in Iceland?

English-language mental health support does exist, especially in Reykjavík, where a number of private psychologists and therapists work with non-Icelandic-speaking clients. Outside the capital, such services become considerably harder to access. Some telephone and online services through the public system may also be available. When registering with a GP, mention your language requirements so that an appropriate referral can be arranged.

Is air pollution a health concern in Iceland?

General air quality in Iceland is excellent: ambient PM2.5 exposure sits at just 5.5 micrograms per cubic metre, against an OECD average of 11.2 micrograms. The primary exception arises during episodes of volcanic activity, when sulphur dioxide and other gases released from eruptions or geothermal vents can degrade air quality — a risk that has been particularly relevant on the Reykjanes Peninsula in recent years. The Icelandic Meteorological Office monitors air quality in real time and issues health alerts when conditions deteriorate.

What is the biggest lifestyle-related health risk in Iceland?

With self-reported obesity at 21% — slightly above the OECD average of 19% — excess body weight and the associated conditions it gives rise to, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, represent Iceland’s most significant lifestyle-related health risks. Public health campaigns focus primarily on nutrition and physical activity. The country’s extensive network of geothermal pools and its strong outdoor recreation culture provide accessible, year-round opportunities for residents of all ages to stay active.

Are cardiovascular diseases as common in Iceland as in other European countries?

Iceland records lower rates of cardiovascular disease incidence and prevalence than the EU average, a result substantially attributable to the strength of its preventive care and primary care systems. Although CVD remains among the leading causes of mortality, Iceland’s outcomes are more favourable than those of the majority of its European counterparts. The most effective personal preventive strategies remain regular health checks and sustained attention to lifestyle factors including diet, physical activity and tobacco use.