A framework for the concurrent consideration of occupational hazards and obesity

Abstract

Occupational hazards and obesity can lead to extensive morbidity and mortality and put great financial burden on society. Historically, occupational hazards and obesity have been addressed as separate unrelated issues, but both are public health problems and there may be public health benefits from considering them together. This paper provides a framework for the concurrent consideration of occupational hazards and obesity. The framework consists of the following elements: (i) investigate the relationship between occupational hazards and obesity, (ii) explore the impact of occupational morbidity and mortality and obesity on workplace absence, disability, productivity and healthcare costs, (iii) assess the utility of the workplace as a venue for obesity prevention programs, (iv) promote a comprehensive approach to worker health and (v) identify and address the ethical, legal and social issues. Utilizing this framework may advance the efforts to address the major societal health problems of occupational hazards and obesity.