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Effect of Obesity on the Work Health-Related Behaviors and Quality of Life of South African Mining Employees: A Pilot Study

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  • Shereen C. Currie
  • Michelle Smit
  • Mondli Linda
  • Jeanne Grace

Abstract

BACKGROUND- Obesity rates have increased precipitously with a significant economic impact. Aim- The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of obesity on the work health-related behaviors and quality of life (QoL) of employees of mining companies in South Africa.METHODS- Forty (40) subjects from three mining companies were assigned to three BMI categories- normal weight (18.5‒24.9 kg/m2; n = 10), overweight 25.0‒29.9 kg/m2; n = 15), and obese (≥30.0 kg/m2; n = 15). Subjects wore a BodyMedia®FIT armband for seven consecutive days, and completed- 1) the WHO QoL; and 2) the WHO Health at Work survey.RESULTS- There were significant differences in calorie expenditure (p = 0.033), activity patterns (p = 0.017), and number of steps walked daily (p = 0.018) between the overweight and obese groups. Those of normal weight reported being significantly (p = 0.041) more satisfied with their QoL and their leisure time activities and income (p = 0.017) than the obese. Almost all the significant differences with regard to work health-related behaviors were between the overweight and obese groups.CONCLUSION- Results provide preliminary support for targeting weight loss as obesity may adversely influence employees’ work health-related behaviors and QoL.

Suggested Citation

  • Shereen C. Currie & Michelle Smit & Mondli Linda & Jeanne Grace, 2017. "Effect of Obesity on the Work Health-Related Behaviors and Quality of Life of South African Mining Employees: A Pilot Study," Global Journal of Health Science, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 9(12), pages 122-122, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:gjhsjl:v:9:y:2017:i:12:p:122
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. David M. Cutler & Edward L. Glaeser & Jesse M. Shapiro, 2003. "Why Have Americans Become More Obese?," Journal of Economic Perspectives, American Economic Association, vol. 17(3), pages 93-118, Summer.
    2. Burkhauser, Richard V. & Cawley, John, 2008. "Beyond BMI: The value of more accurate measures of fatness and obesity in social science research," Journal of Health Economics, Elsevier, vol. 27(2), pages 519-529, March.
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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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