Study links participation in weight-loss programs to reduced absenteeism

Orlando, FL – Obese workers who took part in a structured weight-loss program reported fewer hours missed on the job after six months, a recent University of Michigan study shows.

Researchers surveyed 92 people who had an average body mass index of 40 and worked in various occupations. Before entering the program, participants stated in a self-evaluation that they worked an average of 5.2 fewer hours a month than their employers expected.

After six months and an average of 41 pounds shed, participants reported working 6.4 more hours a month than expected.

“Our findings suggest that, through favorable effects on work attendance, participation in a weight-management program may be mutually beneficial for workers and their employers,” Dr. Jennifer Iyengar, the study’s lead author and an endocrinology fellow at the University of Michigan, said in a press release.

The results of the study were presented April 2 at the Endocrine Society’s 99th annual meeting in Florida.