Many Hospital
Workers Are an Unhealthy Lot: Study
More than three-quarters of workers at six Houston hospitals are overweight or obese, a new study
shows.
Researchers surveyed 924 employees -- mostly technicians and
administrators -- about their health status and diet. Doctors weren't
part of the survey.
The results showed that 78 percent were overweight or obese. Fruit and
vegetable consumption was generally low in all weight groups. Those who were
obese had much higher daily consumption of white potatoes such as french fries,
regular-fat foods (versus reduced- or low-fat), sugary beverages and added
butter and margarine than those of normal weight.
The study also found that 65 percent of respondents had no days of
vigorous physical activity. About half had no days with moderate physical
activity. Compared to those with normal weight, overweight and obese
respondents spent more time doing things such as watching television, playing
computer games and sitting.
The study was published recently in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental
Medicine.
The 78 percent rate of obesity/overweight is
"higher than the national average but not shocking because our study
probably attracted employees who wanted to lose
weight," said study first author Shreela Sharma, an associate professor
at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston's School of Public
Health.
"Regardless, it is troubling because these are hospital employees
active in the workforce and we need them to be healthy. Because obesity is
linked to so many cardiometabolic risks, such as elevated glucose and lipids, this calls for
immediate intervention to prevent chronic diseases," Sharma said in a
university news release.
The study also found that nearly 79 percent of respondents were
dissatisfied with their workplace wellness programs and dissatisfaction was
highest among obese people.
"These results highlight the need for hospital employers to better
understand, support and nurture the health of their employees," Sharma
said.
10.02.2017
I survived because the fire
inside me burned brighter than the fire around me
Mahatma Gandhi
No comments:
Post a Comment