Norway – Health Issues

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

In line with other prosperous Nordic nations, Norway’s overall burden of illness is shaped primarily by non-communicable diseases rather than infectious conditions. Lower back pain, neck pain, anxiety, and depression rank among the principal drivers of poor health across the population, while heart disease and cancer account for the greatest share of deaths. Understanding this pattern enables expats to anticipate which types of healthcare they are most likely to require.

Ischaemic heart disease (IHD) carries the greatest proportion of total disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) at 6.35%. Although it has held this position since 1990, its prevalence has been on a downward trend — a consequence of sustained public health investment in cardiovascular prevention, including substantially reduced smoking rates and more effective treatments.

Cancer and cardiovascular diseases were the two leading causes of death in Norway in 2023. In 2022, prostate cancer was estimated to account for more than 30% of new cancer diagnoses among men, while breast cancer represented 26% of new cases among women. Colorectal and lung cancers are also among the most frequently diagnosed malignancies.

Back pain represents the second-largest share of disease burden, at 4.7% of total DALYs, with COPD and stroke each accounting for 3.92%. Musculoskeletal disorders are a principal driver of both healthcare demand and workplace absence throughout the country.

Alzheimer’s disease — a form of dementia that progressively impairs memory, reasoning, and behaviour — is among the most significant causes of death in Norway and most commonly begins to affect people from around age 65. Of 116 distinct health conditions examined in one major study, dementias generated the highest healthcare expenditure in 2022, and this spending is projected to climb considerably by 2050 as the population ages.

Across all Norwegian counties, the primary causes of disease burden were low back pain, ischaemic heart disease, and headache disorders. In Oslo specifically, depressive disorders emerged as the leading source of disease burden among women and ranked second for both sexes combined — a pattern worth noting for expats planning to settle in the capital.

The prosperity of modern Norway has made tobacco products, fast food, confectionery, and sugary beverages widely accessible — goods that were largely beyond reach before the 1950s. Sedentary employment, widespread car use, and the ever-growing pull of digital technology and social media are reducing physical activity in daily life. These shifting conditions present ongoing challenges to public health, even in a country that performs so strongly on most global indicators.

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

By virtually every established measure, Norway stands out as an exceptionally healthy nation. In 2023, it achieved Europe’s highest-ranked health index score, edging ahead of its Nordic neighbours Sweden and Iceland. This composite ranking draws on health outcomes, healthcare system performance, risk factors, and mortality rates — placing Norway at the continent’s summit.

As of 2024, overall life expectancy in Norway reached 83.2 years — 84.8 years for women and 81.6 years for men. By comparison, global life expectancy is roughly 9.8 years lower, standing at around 71.0 years for men and 75.8 years for women worldwide. Always consult the WHO’s Norway country profile or Statistics Norway (SSB) for the most current data.

Norway is counted among the world’s top ten countries for life expectancy at birth, healthy life expectancy, and age-standardised disability-adjusted life years. The primary explanation for Norwegians living longer is a marked reduction in deaths from cardiovascular disease, neoplasms, and respiratory infections.

Mortality from preventable and treatable conditions is among the lowest recorded anywhere in Europe. This achievement is linked in part to improved survival from treatable cancers: as of 2024, more than three in four people diagnosed with cancer survive for five years or more.

In 2023, Norway was one of the highest-spending countries in the world on healthcare per capita, surpassed only by the United States and Switzerland among OECD members. This substantial investment supports a generously resourced system with high concentrations of physicians, nurses, and specialist services.

Nonetheless, meaningful regional variation exists within Norway. At the inter-county level, the wealthiest 1% of men can expect to outlive the poorest 1% by 8.4 years; the equivalent gap for women is 13.8 years. Research has consistently shown strong links between socioeconomic and educational factors and population health, and significant differences in these profiles exist across municipalities. Expats should bear in mind that health outcomes may differ between urban centres such as Oslo and more remote or northern areas of the country.

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

Norway poses a low infectious disease risk by international standards. While communicable diseases do not constitute a major public health concern, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH) has flagged rising rates of certain infections — including sexually transmitted infections and illnesses linked to international travel and imported food — as well as growing antimicrobial resistance.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) and Lyme disease are found in parts of Norway, most notably along the southwestern and southern coastlines where ticks are more prevalent in forested and grassy terrain. People who spend time outdoors — whether hiking, camping, or working in gardens — should take sensible precautions: wearing long clothing, applying insect repellent, and thoroughly checking for ticks after any outdoor activity. A TBE vaccine is available and may be worth raising with a doctor, particularly for those living in or regularly visiting areas with known tick populations. The Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI) maintains current risk area maps.

Norway has no endemic tropical diseases, and malaria is entirely absent. Tap water is of outstanding quality throughout the country and requires no treatment before drinking. Food safety standards are rigorous and outbreaks of foodborne illness are rare, though basic hygiene in food preparation is always recommended.

Vaccination coverage for influenza, measles, and HPV in Norway comfortably exceeds the EU average, underpinned by a comprehensive national immunisation programme. Expats arriving from countries with different vaccination schedules should review their own immunisation history and ask a doctor whether any catch-up doses are advisable. There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Norway, but consulting your home country’s travel health authority — such as the UK’s Travel Health Pro or the US CDC travel health page for Norway — is worthwhile before relocating.

Air quality in Norway is generally excellent by international standards, particularly in rural and coastal regions. Oslo and other cities can see temporary dips in air quality during winter, when temperature inversions combine with road traffic to concentrate particulates. Those living with asthma or other respiratory conditions should keep an eye on local air quality readings during the colder months via Norway’s Environment Agency air quality portal.

Vitamin D deficiency represents a notable environmental health concern in Norway, particularly during autumn and winter when daylight is scarce — and effectively absent for weeks at a time in the northernmost regions above the Arctic Circle. Physicians practising in sunnier parts of the world may not routinely screen for this. Expats are encouraged to raise the question of vitamin D supplementation with their GP, especially if they are relocating from a country that enjoys year-round sunshine.

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

Norway has one of Europe’s lowest smoking rates and a decades-long track record of forward-looking tobacco control. As of 2023, just 7% of adults reported smoking daily — a striking contrast to the EU average of approximately 21%, achieved through sustained policy effort and a genuine shift in social attitudes over time.

The Norwegian Tobacco Act came into force in 1975, introducing mandatory health warnings on tobacco packaging, a minimum purchasing age of 16 (subsequently raised to 18), and a prohibition on tobacco advertising. Norway continues to be regarded internationally as a country with especially stringent tobacco legislation.

Smoking is prohibited inside all public buildings and aboard aircraft and other forms of public transport. It is also illegal to smoke outdoors in close proximity to children’s schools and hospitals, and all advertising, promotion, or sponsorship of tobacco products is forbidden. These rules are broadly comparable to other northern European countries with comprehensive smoking bans, though the restrictions around outdoor proximity to specific buildings may be more demanding than what some expats have previously encountered.

One feature that distinguishes Norway’s tobacco landscape is the prominent use of snus — a moist, finely ground smokeless tobacco product held beneath the upper lip. Use of snus has grown substantially over the past two decades, particularly among younger adults. As of 2022, 15% of women and 25% of men aged 16–24 reported daily snus use. Although snus is prohibited for sale across the European Union, it is entirely legal in Norway — which is not an EU member — and is sold as a routine product in shops and petrol stations throughout the country.

Nicotine vapes (e-cigarettes) are legally available in Norway and may only be sold to people aged 18 and over; they can be purchased without a prescription, though their use in public spaces is subject to legal restrictions. Heated tobacco products are banned in Norway, while snus remains permitted and governed as a regulated tobacco product. Expats who use vaping devices or heated tobacco products should familiarise themselves with these distinctions before arrival.

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

Despite Norway’s strong performance across many health indicators, obesity and substandard diet have emerged as genuine areas of concern. As of 2022, roughly one in six Norwegian adults is obese. The national obesity rate climbed from approximately 5% in 1996 to 12% by 2015, though the overall prevalence of overweight and obesity in Norway remains marginally below the EU average.

Poor dietary habits are a key driver of excess weight. In 2022, only 56% of Norwegian adults reported eating fruit on a daily basis — lower than the EU average of 61%. Among teenagers, just 28% of 15-year-olds reported eating fruit daily in 2022, slightly below the EU average of 30%. Fruit and vegetable consumption in Norway is comparatively low against many other European nations.

The traditional Norwegian diet centres on fish, dairy products, bread, and root vegetables, with a strong heritage of preserved foods such as salted and smoked fish. In cities, the food landscape has diversified considerably, with international cuisines widely accessible. However, the rising prevalence of processed and convenience foods is contributing to dietary risk factors. Dietary habits and tobacco use remain among the most significant contributors to overall mortality in Norway, with insufficient fruit and vegetable intake and high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages cited as particular concerns.

In 2025, Norway introduced legislation prohibiting the marketing of unhealthy products — including sweets, soft drinks, ice cream, and energy drinks — to children, marking a significant milestone in national nutrition policy. Public health initiatives promoting physical activity and balanced eating are coordinated through the Norwegian Directorate of Health (Helsedirektoratet).

Only 30% of Norwegian adults currently meet the recommended target of 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. Despite a deeply embedded culture of outdoor pursuits — skiing, hiking, cycling, and football are woven into everyday Norwegian life — sedentary habits at work and at home are becoming increasingly widespread, especially among younger generations. Norway does, however, rank among OECD countries with the highest proportion of adults engaging in at least moderate weekly physical activity.

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

Mental health is increasingly discussed openly in Norway, though attitudes continue to vary. A 2011 survey found that 10.2% of the Norwegian population reported symptoms of anxiety and depression in the preceding two weeks, while the lifetime prevalence of severe depression is estimated at 15.6% — figures broadly in line with rates observed across comparable European countries.

In Oslo, depressive disorders ranked as the leading source of disease burden for women and the second-highest cause for both sexes combined. This may partly reflect higher rates of diagnosis and help-seeking behaviour in an urban population, as well as elevated prevalence. As elsewhere, depression was more frequently reported among women and those in lower income groups.

Unlike several other Nordic countries, Norway did not see a notable rise in antidepressant use over the past decade. This may point to different prescribing conventions or treatment preferences, with psychological therapies and community-based services playing a more prominent role in how mental health conditions are managed.

Norway’s public healthcare system encompasses mental health services at both primary and specialist levels. A GP — known locally as a fastlege, or regular doctor — is generally the first port of call and can refer patients to community mental health centres (Distriktspsykiatriske sentre, or DPS) for outpatient treatment, or to inpatient psychiatric facilities when the clinical need is greater. Compared with systems where mental health referrals carry significant financial cost or interminable waits, Norway’s public model offers structured access pathways, though waiting times for non-urgent outpatient services can be considerable.

Private psychologists and therapists operate in most cities and larger towns, generally offering shorter waiting times. The cost of private mental health consultations can be substantial — typically in the range of NOK 1,000–1,800 per session — though some private practitioners work within public reimbursement schemes. It is advisable to confirm current rates and insurance coverage before making an appointment. Expats who have not yet registered with a fastlege may initially find access to public mental health services more restricted.

Norway has pursued a range of initiatives to strengthen primary care and public health, including efforts to reduce health inequalities and bolster mental health prevention. The Helsenorge.no portal — Norway’s official health information website — provides guidance in Norwegian and other languages on how to access mental health services.

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

For the majority of people relocating to Norway, the country presents a low-risk health environment. Nevertheless, there are several practical adjustments and specific considerations that are worth preparing for in advance. The steps below can help you stay in good health after your move.

1. Register with a GP (fastlege) as soon as possible. Every resident in Norway is entitled to enrol with a regular GP through the national GP scheme. Registration can be completed via the Helsenorge.no portal. Accessing non-emergency public healthcare without a registered GP is considerably more difficult, so this should be among your very first priorities once you receive a Norwegian personal identity number (personnummer).
2. Review your vaccination history. Norway’s immunisation schedule may not align precisely with what you received at home. Bring a vaccination record to your initial GP appointment and ask about any gaps, including whether a TBE vaccination is appropriate if you expect to spend time in tick-risk areas.
3. Prepare for vitamin D deficiency. This is a particularly frequent concern for those arriving from sunnier regions. Speak to your doctor about supplementation, especially if you are moving to northern Norway where the polar night can persist for weeks on end.
4. Allow time to adjust to the climate. Harsh winters, icy paths, and heavy snowfall increase the likelihood of slips, falls, and cold-related illness. Falls account for 3.99% of total DALYs in Norway and the figure has been edging upwards. Invest in suitable winter clothing and footwear with reliable grip before temperatures drop.
5. Understand the risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Extended periods of darkness during winter affect large numbers of people — locals and newcomers alike — bringing reduced mood, fatigue, and disturbed sleep. Light therapy lamps are a common and effective tool, widely sold in Norwegian pharmacies and homeware shops. Speak to your GP if symptoms are pronounced.
6. Confirm your health insurance arrangements. EEA citizens can rely on a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for emergency coverage. Non-EEA nationals and those not yet enrolled in the public system should maintain private health insurance until they are fully registered and entitled to public healthcare. Once you are a registered resident and taxpayer, Norway’s universal system covers the large majority of medical costs, subject to standard patient contributions (egenandel).
7. Seek support for the psychological aspects of relocation. Culture shock, social isolation, language barriers, and the general difficulty of adjusting to a new country are genuine challenges for many expats. International communities in Oslo and other cities, as well as networks such as InterNations Norway, can complement the professional mental health services available through the public system.

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

Norway maintains a well-structured network of official health institutions and digital resources. Expats are strongly advised to consult these sources directly, as specific figures, vaccination guidance, and service entitlements are subject to periodic revision.

• Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI / Folkehelseinstituttet): Norway’s principal public health authority. It publishes epidemiological data, immunisation guidance, infectious disease updates, and national health statistics. An English-language section of the website is available for international users.
• Helsenorge.no: The official Norwegian health information portal for members of the public. It covers GP registration, mental health access, patient rights, and guidance on navigating the broader healthcare system. The site is partially translated into English.
• Norwegian Directorate of Health (Helsedirektoratet): The government body overseeing health policy and clinical guidelines. Its English pages address tobacco control, public health initiatives, and healthcare regulations.
• Statistics Norway (SSB / Statistisk sentralbyrå): The national statistics office, providing detailed health data covering life expectancy, causes of mortality, and disease prevalence. An essential reference for verifying current figures.
• WHO Norway Country Profile: The World Health Organization’s country-level data and reports on Norway, useful for benchmarking Norwegian health indicators against global averages.
• Your home country’s travel and health authority: Both before and after relocating, consult your home country’s official travel health guidance — including resources such as the US CDC Norway travel page, the UK’s Travel Health Pro, or equivalent bodies for other nationalities.
• Oslo University Hospital (Oslo universitetssykehus): Norway’s largest hospital, providing specialist care across a wide range of disciplines. International patients and residents may request English-speaking staff. Further details are available at oslo-universitetssykehus.no.

Always verify current health requirements, applicable fees, and service entitlements through official Norwegian sources both before and after your move, as policies and co-payment levels change from time to time. The research underpinning this article was conducted in early 2026, and some specific figures may have been revised since publication.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Issues in Norway

Is the water safe to drink in Norway?

Yes. Tap water across Norway is of outstanding quality and may be consumed directly from the tap without any treatment. Rigorous water safety standards are enforced by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet). There is no health-based reason to buy bottled water, and the vast majority of Norwegians rely on tap water as a matter of course.

Do I need any vaccinations before moving to Norway?

No vaccinations are compulsory for entry into Norway. That said, it is advisable to ensure your routine immunisations are up to date — including MMR, tetanus-diphtheria-polio, and influenza. If you intend to spend time in wooded areas known to harbour ticks, a TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) vaccine is worth raising with your doctor. Consult your home country’s travel health authority and the FHI website for the most current guidance ahead of your move.

How do I register with a doctor in Norway?

Once you have been issued a Norwegian personal identity number (personnummer), you can enrol with a regular GP (fastlege) through the national GP scheme via Helsenorge.no. The portal allows you to see which GPs have capacity in your local area. Enrolling is free and entitles you to subsidised primary care. Prior to registration, you can still access emergency services and out-of-hours clinics (legevakt).

What is the risk of Lyme disease or tick-borne illness in Norway?

Ticks capable of transmitting Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) are present in Norway, particularly along the southwestern and southern coastlines and in forested terrain below roughly 1,000 metres altitude. While the overall risk is low, it is not negligible for people who spend time in affected areas. Covering exposed skin, using insect repellent, and carefully checking for ticks after outdoor activity substantially reduces the risk. The Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI) publishes updated risk area maps.

Is seasonal affective disorder (SAD) common in Norway?

Yes. The protracted darkness of Norwegian winters — and the extended polar night in the far north — means that reduced daylight is a significant influence on mood and wellbeing for many residents, including those who have lived in Norway their whole lives. Low mood, persistent tiredness, and disrupted sleep are among the most common symptoms. Light therapy lamps are a widely used and readily available remedy, sold in shops throughout the country. For persistent or severe symptoms, a GP can explore further options including psychological therapy and medication.

How does Norway’s mental health system work for expats?

Registered residents in Norway can access public mental health services through the GP system. Your fastlege can offer initial support, prescribe medication where appropriate, and refer you to specialist outpatient community mental health centres (DPS) or inpatient facilities if required. Waiting times for non-urgent specialist appointments can stretch from several weeks to several months. Private psychologists and therapists, available in most cities, typically offer quicker access but at notable personal expense — usually NOK 1,000–1,800 per session, though some work within public reimbursement arrangements. Certain private practitioners offer consultations in languages other than Norwegian.

Is air quality a health concern in Norway?

In general, Norway enjoys considerably cleaner air than most European countries. However, urban areas — Oslo in particular — can experience periodic drops in air quality during winter, when temperature inversions trap exhaust emissions and particulate matter close to the ground. People with asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions may be affected during these episodes. Norway’s Environment Agency provides a real-time air quality monitoring portal where local conditions can be checked. Pollen is also a seasonal concern in spring and summer for those who suffer from hay fever.

Are there particular health challenges for expats arriving from tropical or subtropical climates?

Yes. The most significant adjustments typically relate to the cold and the reduced daylight. Vitamin D deficiency is a real risk for people relocating from sunnier parts of the world; when you first register with a GP, it is worth asking for your vitamin D levels to be tested. Cold-weather safety also deserves serious attention — the danger of hypothermia in exposed conditions, and of falls on icy pavements and roads, should not be underestimated. Equipping yourself with quality winter clothing, dressing in layers, and choosing footwear designed for icy surfaces will make a considerable difference to your wellbeing and safety throughout the colder months.