Illnesses and health conditions generated €528.5 billion in direct costs in Germany in 2024, an increase of €37.5 billion from the previous year. The total rose by 7.6%, according to figures reported by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) on Thursday, October 8.

Average spending increased by €430 to €6,330 per person. The per-capita figure was €6,960 for women, 22.5% above the €5,680 recorded for men, partly reflecting women’s higher life expectancy and larger representation among the oldest age groups.

Cardiovascular diseases produced the largest bill at €69.4 billion, narrowly ahead of mental and behavioural disorders at €68.7 billion. Residents aged 65 and older accounted for €284.3 billion, or 53.8% of all costs, averaging €15,080 each. The statistics cover direct expenditure on treatment, prevention, rehabilitation and care, but exclude wider losses such as work absences.