Researchers from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor analyzed modifiable health risks in nearly 223,500 people across seven industries.
Here are five things to know:
1. The study found obesity was the most prevalent and costly for employees followed by stress and the use of mood-altering drugs.
2. Researchers identified other modifiable risks including seatbelt use, exercise, tobacco and alcohol use, blood pressure and cholesterol.
3. Lead researcher, Michael O’Donnell, PhD, said thousands of wellness programs are “too superficial to have an impact.”
4. Researchers found the extra cost linked with modifiable risks were about the same for healthy employees and those with chronic condition, indicating employers can save money by helping those workers reduce existing health problems.
5. The study found the average healthcare cost for a healthy employee was roughly $3,000 and about $10,000 for an employee with at least one medical condition. Modifiable behaviors and conditions accounted for around $750 for healthy employees and approximately $2,600 for those with pre-existing health problems.
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