OBJECTIVES: The relationship between exercise and health expenditure in children is not well understood, despite the numerous benefits of exercise for physical and mental health. This study aims to explore the impact of exercise on health expenditure in children, focusing on the critical period of early childhood. Understanding this relationship can inform public health policies and interventions targeting this population.

METHODS: Data from the World Bank database were utilized to investigate the association between exercise and health expenditure in children and their families. Children were categorized into two groups based on their exercise habits, and health expenditure was estimated using logistics regression analysis.

RESULTS: The results revealed that children who engage in regular exercise have lower health expenditure compared to those who do not. On average, children who exercise regularly had an annual health expenditure of $1,543, whereas those who do not engage in regular exercise had an average expenditure of $1,862. This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Additionally, children who exercised regularly were more likely to maintain a healthy diet and get sufficient sleep, which may contribute to their lower health expenditure.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study highlight the association between exercise and reduced health expenditure in children. These findings have important implications for public health interventions and policies aimed at promoting exercise and healthy behaviors in children. Future research should explore the long-term impact of exercise on health expenditure throughout the lifespan and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of exercise interventions in this population. Additionally, the effect of confounder such as lifestyle and genetics need further investigations.