The Measurable Benefits of a Workplace Wellness Program in Canada: Results After One Year

J Occup Environ Med. 2018 Mar;60(3):211-216. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000001240.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of an employee wellness program in Canada.

Methods: A comprehensive program including web-based lifestyle challenges was evaluated with annual health screenings.

Results: Among 730 eligible employees, 688 (94%) registered for the program, 571 (78%) completed a health screening at baseline, and 314 (43%) at 1 year. Most (66%) employees tracked their activity for more than 6 weeks. At 1-year follow-up, there were significant clinical improvements in systolic blood pressure -3.4 mm Hg, and reductions in poor sleep quality (33% to 28%), high emotional stress (21% to 15%), and fatigue (11% to 6%). A positive dose-response was noted where the greatest improvements were observed among those who participated the most.

Conclusion: The program had high employee engagement. After 1 year, the benefits included clinically important improvements in physical and mental health.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blood Pressure
  • Body Mass Index
  • Canada
  • Cholesterol, HDL / blood
  • Exercise
  • Fatigue / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Glycated Hemoglobin / metabolism
  • Health Education*
  • Health Promotion*
  • Healthy Lifestyle*
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Health
  • Program Evaluation
  • Sleep
  • Stress, Psychological / prevention & control
  • Workplace*

Substances

  • Cholesterol, HDL
  • Glycated Hemoglobin A
  • hemoglobin A1c protein, human