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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Ron Z. Goetzel, PhD, Institute for Health and Productivity Studies, Cornell University Institute for Policy Research, 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 330, Washington, DC 20008, 202-719-7850, ron.goetzel@thomson.com

Is investing in health promotion programs directed at overweight and obesity a wise business decision? Until recently, health promotion program advocates were at a loss when challenged to produce an economic argument for their programs. But, times are changing.

This session will synthesize what is known, what is still under discussion and debate, and what is yet to be learned about the financial impact of health promotion. Nearly 100 studies conducted over the past 20 years have examined the economics of health promotion. Much of that evidence was recently compiled in the American Journal of Health Promotion and a special report prepared for the Institute of Medicine (IOM). These reports helped organize the current evidence regarding the "business case" for health promotion and wellness.

The session will offer evidence supporting the following points:

* A large proportion of diseases and disorders from which people suffer is preventable;

* Modifiable health risk factors are precursors to many of diseases, disorders, and premature death;

* Many modifiable health risks are associated with increased health care and productivity related costs within a short time window;

* Modifiable health risks can be improved through effective health promotion programs;

* Improvements in the health risk profile of a population can lead to reductions in health costs;

* Well-designed programs can be cost/beneficial - they can save more money than they cost, thus producing a positive ROI.

Learning Objectives: