Improvement Predictors in a Workplace Program Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Predicting improvements in employee healthy lifestyle habits (LHs) after workplace health promotion programs is not well understood.
• This study aimed to identify baseline characteristics that predict improvements in physical activity (PA), eating habits, sleep habits, and stress management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify employee baseline characteristics that predict improvements in specific healthy lifestyle habits (LHs).
• To understand which factors influence positive changes in physical activity (PA), eating, sleep, and stress management within a workplace setting.

Main Methods:

• The 'Activate Your Health' program involved 506 employees completing baseline and postintervention questionnaires.
• Data collected included sociodemographic information, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and general health perceptions.
• Participants with potential for improvement were included in outcome analyses.

Main Results:

• High alcohol consumption and intent to reduce it predicted improved physical activity (PA).
• Good perceived health, poor sleep, high alcohol use, and intent to manage stress predicted better stress management.
• Depression and intent to improve sleep predicted better stress management; feelings of pleasure predicted improved BMI.

Conclusions:

• Predictors for improving different healthy lifestyle habits (LHs) varied significantly among employees.
• A targeted, individualized strategy may be necessary to effectively enhance employee LHs and associated health outcomes.