Worksite environmental interventions for obesity control: an overview.

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Behavioral science
• Public health interventions

Background:

• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute funded seven worksite weight control studies in 2004.
• Interventions combined environmental changes with individually targeted strategies.
• Studies were conducted across diverse US worksites.

Discussion:

• This supplement evaluates environmental and cost findings from the funded studies.
• Manuscripts assess process evaluation and the impact of psychosocial work stressors.
• The research explores the relationship between work environment and body mass index.

Key Insights:

• Multicomponent interventions show promise for worksite weight management.
• Environmental changes are a key component of effective weight control strategies.
• Psychosocial work stressors can influence body mass index outcomes.

Outlook:

• Further research is needed to optimize worksite wellness programs.
• Cost-effectiveness analysis is crucial for widespread implementation.
• Understanding the interplay of work environment and health behaviors is essential for public health strategies.