Report: Targeted obesity plans can drive workplace change

For the most part, reducing workplace weight gain and obesity has been a losing battle, but a new report advises employers that there may be a way to help employees improve their weight loss. The secret to success? Targeted, personalized programs for employee subgroups, combined with nutrition and fitness activities that apply to broad employee populations.

The Northeast Business Group on Health (NEBGH) report, “Tipping the Scales on Weight Control: New Strategies for Employers,” says the first step is to differentiate employees by body mass index (BMI), a key weight metric, and focus programs and benefits most appropriate for each segment as a way to help increase the effectiveness in reversing the obesity epidemic.