Chapter 1
Obesity
[ch 1: page 18]Fit for Work points out that obesity is one of the most significant health issues facing the UK population today: 64% of adults are classed as being overweight or obese, costing the UK £47 billion every year. This figure is continuing to rise and can mean employees having to take more time off work — both short and long-term — because of associated health conditions. Fit for Work says that while it can be uncomfortable for employers to consider talking to employees about topics such as obesity, “with a well-rounded ‘wellness strategy’ in the workplace, these conversations can form part of everyday office life”.