Micalla Williden1, Grant Schofield, Scott Duncan. 1. Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Faculty of Health & Environmental, Sciences, AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand. mikki.williden@aut.ac.nz
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To provide the first investigation of individual health behaviors and measures of work performance in New Zealand. METHODS: Health risk assessments were completed by 747 adults aged 18 to 65 years. Associations between measures of productivity and health risk factors were assessed using multiple stepwise regression. RESULTS: Participants with low to moderate psychological distress levels and who were physically active reported a work performance 6.5% (P < 0.001) and 3.5% (P < 0.001) higher, respectively. Furthermore, high psychological distress and smoking accounted for 16.8 (P < 0.001) and 11.6 (P = 0.038) additional absentee hours over the previous 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: The impact that psychological distress, physical inactivity, and smoking have on productivity suggests that employers may benefit from contributing to health promotion within the workplace.
OBJECTIVE: To provide the first investigation of individual health behaviors and measures of work performance in New Zealand. METHODS: Health risk assessments were completed by 747 adults aged 18 to 65 years. Associations between measures of productivity and health risk factors were assessed using multiple stepwise regression. RESULTS:Participants with low to moderate psychological distress levels and who were physically active reported a work performance 6.5% (P < 0.001) and 3.5% (P < 0.001) higher, respectively. Furthermore, high psychological distress and smoking accounted for 16.8 (P < 0.001) and 11.6 (P = 0.038) additional absentee hours over the previous 4 weeks. CONCLUSIONS: The impact that psychological distress, physical inactivity, and smoking have on productivity suggests that employers may benefit from contributing to health promotion within the workplace.
Authors: Timothy J Walker; Jessica M Tullar; Pamela M Diamond; Harold W Kohl; Benjamin C Amick Journal: J Occup Environ Med Date: 2017-05 Impact factor: 2.162