The association between worksite physical environment and employee nutrition, and physical activity behavior and weight status

Fabio A. Almeida, Sarah S. Wall, Wen You, Samantha M. Harden, Jennie L Hill, Blake E. Krippendorf, Paul A Estabrooks

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

27 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: To explore the relationship between worksite physical environment and employee dietary intake, physical activity behavior, and weight status. Methods: Two trained research assistants completed audits (Checklist of Health Promotion Environments at Worksites) at each worksite (n = 28). Employees (n = 6261) completed a brief health survey before participation in a weight loss program. Results: Employees access to outdoor areas was directly associated with lower body mass index (BMI), whereas access to workout facilities within a worksite was associated with higher BMI. The presence of a cafeteria and fewer vending machines was directly associated with better eating habits. Better eating habits and meeting physical activity recommendations were both related to lower BMI. Conclusions: Selected environmental factors in worksites were significantly associated with employee behaviors and weight status, providing additional intervention targets to change the worksite environment and promote employee weight loss.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)779-784
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of occupational and environmental medicine
Volume56
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2014

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

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