The costs of obesity: what occupational health nurses need to know.

Debra L Thompson

Journal: AAOHN journal : official journal of the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses 2007;55(7):265-70

PMID: 17665823

Full Text on Ovid Technologies, Inc. View on PubMed

Abstract

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.

Address: Mayo Health System, North Mankato, MN, USA.

DOI: 10.1177/216507990705500702

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https://medlineplus.gov/obesity.html

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MeSH Terms: Cost of Illness, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Efficiency, Organizational, Employer Health Costs, Health Promotion, Humans, Life Style, Nurse's Role, Obesity, Occupational Health Nursing, Sick Leave, United States