Many employers are discovering that obesity in the workplace is a problem — and it’s a problem that cannot be ignored.
“It’s not just the weight, but also the negative effects that come with obesity,” says Madelyn Fernstrom, Ph.D., the director of Nutrition and Weight Management for UPMC Health Plan. “Loss of productivity, absenteeism and a reduced quality of life are all ways obesity can negatively impact employees, which, in turn, can negatively impact the organization.”
From a financial point of view, the costs of absenteeism have been estimated at more than $74 billion annually for U.S. companies. The annual cost for an obese worker has been estimated to be as high as $2,500. In terms of lost productivity, obesity is associated with 39 million lost workdays in the U.S., according to a recent study.
Therefore, employers have a role to play in curbing obesity by creating a more healthy work environment.
Smart Business spoke with Fernstrom about what employers can do to reduce obesity in the workplace.
How can a workplace be more conducive to weight loss?
Two-thirds of Americans are overweight or obese. That rate has doubled in a generation. It’s not only genetics; it’s also an unhealthy environment. Because a large part of the day is spent at the workplace, it is only logical that that is one area where an employer’s support for a healthier environment can make a difference.
There are little things an employer can do to support a healthier workplace, starting with food services. They can provide healthier choices in a cafeteria’s vending machine, along with nutrition about the foods that are offered. They can provide options such as water, seltzer and diet soda as alternatives to high-calorie beverages.
What are some of the first steps that could be taken?
You need to establish a wellness committee that can do things such as creating five-minute and 10-minute walking tours for employees. You need to educate employees about the importance of getting 30 minutes of activity a day. For most people, the No. 1 reason for inactivity is a lack of time, not a lack of interest.
What have been shown to be effective incentives at work?
Studies have shown that financial incentives work the best. You can offer things such as health care premium discounts or free or discounted memberships at gyms or in programs like Weight Watchers. You could subsidize the addition of healthier food choices in the cafeteria.
