A formative study to reduce and prevent obesity in low socioeconomic status workers

Background and Objectives: Low SES workers are more likely to be overweight and less likely to make use of existing workplace wellness programs. This study describes workplace barriers and facilitators to healthy weight among two groups of low SES workers.

Methods: We recruited workers from a healthcare system and a union representing retail workers; both groups had a high proportion of low SES workers. This study uses an exploratory mixed-methods design, incorporating key informant interviews, focus groups, and surveys.

Results: To date, we have interviewed 15 key informants, conducted 8 focus groups (n=57), and collected 173 worker surveys. Qualitative information collected from the union indicates there are very few wellness programs for workers and that variable work schedules and exhaustion are barriers to healthy eating and exercise. Healthcare workers stressed lack of upper management commitment and communication difficulties as major barriers to implementing wide-spread wellness initiatives. Preliminary data from the survey showed that healthcare workers had a higher BMI (29.8) and were more likely to be obese (45.7%) than retail workers (BMI=27.8; 29.1% obese). Healthcare workers were more likely to report workplace supports including health promotion programs. Number of hours worked per week, irregular schedules, and food purchased at the worksite were associated with higher BMI. We plan to collect a total of 600 surveys by summer 2014.  

Conclusions: This study will conduct foundational work needed to inform future interventions to improve participation in existing workplace wellness programs and to develop programs that are better tailored to low-income workers.