New Web site helps employers combat the obesity epidemic

By Joelle Atkinson
July 7, 2009

Responding to requests from the employer community, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently launched a new Web site titled LEANWorks!, which offers metrics and advice on weight-loss programs in the workplace.


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The CDC’s Web site is free and helps employers to calculate how much the obesity epidemic is costing them. For instance, online visitors can access an obesity cost-calculator that estimates obesity-related health costs based on workforce demographics.


Additionally, the online program comes equipped with a portal that assists employers in personalizing weight-loss programs, such as fitness classes, lunchtime health and education sessions and other wellness activities.


The CDC hopes the Web site will facilitate employers’ efforts to plan and execute interventions to stop obesity before it starts. “CDC has identified science-based interventions that work to prevent and control obesity. [The online program] provides the tools that employers need to take action,” says Dr. William Deitz, director of CDC’s division of nutrition, physical activity, and obesity.


Obesity can be a large risk factor for high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The government reports that obese individuals tend to spend an average of 77% more on medications needed to combat their chronic diseases.


“Obesity affects more than just health care costs. It also has a significant impact on worker productivity because the more chronic diseases employees have, the more likely they are to be absent from work, or less productive if they come to work sick,” says Dr. Janet Collins, director of CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.


Many employers tend not to publish outcomes and results on their wellness and diseases programs in scientific journals. Consequently, researchers at the CDC personally visited businesses that had promising obesity prevention and control practices. Employers' testimonials on their weight-loss programs are also posted on the new Web site.


Related coverage:

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