Health Risks and Medical Claims of South African Employees
Author Information
Author(s): Kolbe-Alexander Tracy L, Buckmaster Chris, Nossel Craig, Dreyer Liezel, Bull Fiona, Noakes Timothy D, Lambert Estelle V
Primary Institution: UCT/MRC Research Unit for Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, University of Cape Town
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the health and risk profile of South African employees presenting for health risk assessments and to measure their readiness to change and improve lifestyle behaviour.
Conclusion
South African employees' health and lifestyle habits are placing them at increased risk for non-communicable diseases, suggesting they may develop these diseases earlier than expected.
Supporting Evidence
- 37% of all deaths in South Africa are due to non-communicable diseases.
- The mean health-related age of participants was significantly higher than their chronological age.
- Employees had higher rates of overweight, smoking, and physical inactivity compared to the general South African population.
Takeaway
This study shows that many workers in South Africa are not taking care of their health, which could make them sick sooner than they should be.
Methodology
Employees from 18 companies participated in a wellness day that included health-risk assessments, self-reported health behaviour, and clinical measures.
Potential Biases
Healthier employees may be more likely to participate, potentially skewing results.
Limitations
The study may be biased as it only includes employees who volunteered to participate in the wellness days.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 1954 employees from various sectors, with a mean chronological age of 34.9 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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