The costs of obesity: what occupational health nurses need to know.
Each year millions of Americans struggle with obesity and health problems related to it. Despite the focus on health promotion and healthy lifestyles, the obesity epidemic is worsening. Disability, decreased quality of life, greater health care use, decreased workplace productivity, and increased absenteeism may be associated with obesity, leading to higher costs to businesses and society. The financial impact on businesses, especially health care costs to treat obese employees, is staggering. This is a burden for businesses trying to control expenses. Occupational health nurses are key to developing effective wellness programs for employers.
Thompson
Debra L
DL
Mayo Health System, North Mankato, MN, USA.
D017281:Cost of Illness; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D017598:Efficiency, Organizational; D017049:Employer Health Costs; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009765:Obesity / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009785:Occupational Health Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018582:Sick Leave; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology