Moderately or extremely obese employees have the highest health-related absenteeism rates of all employee groups. They also have the greatest presenteeism rates, according to productivity study report in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
Researchers measured productivity in a random sample of employees in a manufacturing plant. Many of the employees were overweight but not obese (43 percent), defined as a BMI of 25-29.9. Another 23 percent were mildly obese (BMI 30-34.9) and 13 percent were moderately to extremely obese (BMI 35+). Health-related losses in productivity were 1.8 percent higher for workers with moderate or extreme obesity. Workplace weight management programs have been shown to produce a significant improvement in productivity and health.
In one year, overweight or obese workers who received coaching and other services to support their efforts to lose weight, improve eating habits, and increase physical activity the participants had reductions in 7 of 10 health risk factors and lost an average of 10 pounds. The return on investment (ROI) model estimated a modest short-term return of $1.17 for each dollar spent on the obesity management program.
The WellAssured® Guide to Weight Management teaches a realistic, systematic, practical, and "take charge" approach to weight management. Readers are introduced to practical strategies for reducing fat and calories in their diet, increasing physical activity, coping with stress, and creating support systems. An eating-pattern questionnaire is included, as well as logs for keeping track of physical activity, diet, and weight loss. The guide is designed to be used as a post-assessment follow-up program for individual self-study or group classes. For more information, contact your Wellsource account manager at 503-656-7446.
References:
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. 2008;50:981-990.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. 2008;50:39-45 |
