Obesity and the health conditions associated with it; such as, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, stroke, coronary heart disease, and certain types of cancer are responsible for much of the increase in health care spending by employers. Obese people spend 77% more money for necessary medications than non-obese people.
Obesity affects more than health care costs; it also has a significant effect on productivity in the workplace, because the more chronic medical conditions an employee has, the higher the probability of absenteeism or presenteeism. (Presenteeism: The employee is present at work but not being fully productive).
A worksite wellness program can feature information and activities that promote healthy eating, regular physical activity, and weight loss among employees. Empowering them to prevent or delay and manage diabetes.
Learn more at Diabetes Better Health Sense, and at the CDC LeanWorks, and the National Physical Activity Plan, Steps to Wellness: A Guide to Implementing the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for American in the Workplace.