Health Forecasting Possibilities based on Open Data: Quantifying the Burden of Smoking in Spain

Abstract

The utilization of open data presents significant opportunities for transformative analysis in the health sector, particularly in understanding consumer habits and their impact on health. This study offers a pioneering and comprehensive cohort analysis of the long-term effects of smoking within Spain’s healthcare system, projecting trends through 2030. Despite a nationwide decline in smoking rates, critical challenges persist, notably among the aging “baby-boomer” generation, who are experiencing sharp increases in disease prevalence and related healthcare costs. This analysis highlights the substantial economic burdens, including direct healthcare expenses and broader impacts such as productivity losses and diminished quality of life. It demonstrates the power of open data in facilitating these insights. By leveraging openly accessible health data, this paper underscores the potential for in-depth analysis supporting informed public health policy decision-making. The findings emphasize the crucial role of open data in crafting effective health interventions and policies aimed at mitigating the ongoing impact of smoking, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and health-conscious society.