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Sasaki N, Ogawa S, Sawada U, Shimazu T, Powell BJ, Takeno H, Tsutsumi A, Imamura K. Effectiveness of an online text-based stress management program for employees who work in micro- and small-sized enterprises: A randomized controlled trial. Internet Interv 2024; 37:100754. [PMID: 39021784 PMCID: PMC11254178 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2024.100754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Internet psychoeducational interventions improve employees' mental health. However, implementing them for employees in micro- and small-sized enterprises (MSEs) is challenging. Objectives This randomized controlled trial examined the effectiveness of a fully automated text-based stress management program, "WellBe-LINE," in improving mental health and job-related outcomes for employees in workplaces with fewer than 50 employees. Methods The program was developed based on stakeholder interviews and surveys of 1000 employees at MSEs. Adult full-time employees at an enterprise with fewer than 50 employees were recruited from registered members of a web survey company in Japan. Participants were randomly allocated to the intervention or control group (1:1). Participants in the intervention group were invited to register for the program using the LINE app. Psychological distress measured by Kessler 6 (K6) was a primary outcome, with self-administrated questionnaires at baseline, 2-month (post), and 6-month follow-ups. A mixed model for repeated measures conditional growth model analysis was conducted using a group ∗ time interaction as an intervention effect. Implementation outcomes were measured through implementation outcome scales for digital mental health (iOSDMH). Results 1021 employees were included in this study. No significant effects were shown in any outcome. The reported implementation outcomes were positively evaluated, with 80 % acceptability, 86 % appropriateness, and feasibility (ease of understanding the contents [88 %], frequency [86 %], and length of content [86 %]). Conclusions A simple text-message program for employees at MESs was acceptable, appropriate, and feasible; however, it did not result in improved mental health or job-related outcomes. Trial registration UMIN clinical trial registration: UMIN000050624 (registration date: March 18, 2023).
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsu Sasaki
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Mental Health Services Research, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Center for Dissemination & Implementation, Institute for Public Health, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Sayaka Ogawa
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Utako Sawada
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taichi Shimazu
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Byron J. Powell
- Center for Mental Health Services Research, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Center for Dissemination & Implementation, Institute for Public Health, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, John T. Milliken Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Hajime Takeno
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akizumi Tsutsumi
- Department of Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Kotaro Imamura
- Department of Digital Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo
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Lange M, Lowe A, Kayser I, Schaller A. Approaches for the use of Artificial Intelligence in workplace health promotion and prevention: A systematic scoping review. JMIR AI 2024. [PMID: 38989904 DOI: 10.2196/53506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artificial intelligence (AI) is an umbrella term for various algorithms and rapidly emerging technologies with huge potential for workplace health promotion and prevention (WHPP). WHPP interventions aim to improve people's health and well-being through behavioral and organizational measures or by minimizing the burden of workplace-related diseases and associated risk factors. While AI has been the focus of research in other health-related fields, such as Public Health or biomedicine, the transition of AI into WHPP research has yet to be systematically investigated. OBJECTIVE The systematic scoping review aims to comprehensively assess an overview of the current use of AI in WHPP. The results will be then used to point to future research directions. The following research questions were derived: (1) what are the study characteristics of studies on AI algorithms and technologies in the context of WHPP, (2) what specific WHPP fields (prevention, behavioral, and organizational approaches) were addressed by the AI algorithms and technologies, and (3) what kind of interventions lead to which outcomes? METHODS A systematic scoping literature review (PRISMA-ScR) was conducted in the three academic databases PubMed, IEEE, and ACM in July 2023, searching for articles published between January 2000 and December 2023. Studies needed to be 1) peer-reviewed, 2) written in English, and 3) focused on any AI-based algorithm or technology that (4) were conducted in the context of WHPP or (5) an associated field. Information on study design, AI algorithms and technologies, WHPP fields, and the PICO framework were extracted blindly with Rayyan and summarized. RESULTS A total of ten studies were included. Risk prevention and modeling were the most identified WHPP fields (n=6), followed by behavioral health promotion (n=4) and organizational health promotion (n=1). Four studies focused on mental health. Most AI algorithms were machine learning-based, and three studies used combined deep learning algorithms. AI algorithms and technologies were primarily implemented in smartphone applications (eg, in the form of a Chatbot) or used the smartphone as a data source (eg, GPS). Behavioral approaches ranged from 8 to 12 weeks and were compared to control groups. Three studies evaluated the robustness and accuracy of an AI model or framework. CONCLUSIONS Although AI has caught increasing attention in health-related research, the review reveals that AI in WHPP is marginally investigated. Our results indicate that AI is promising for individualization and risk prediction in WHPP, but current research does not cover the scope of WHPP. Beyond that, future research will profit from an extended range of research in all fields of WHPP, longitudinal data, and reporting guidelines. CLINICALTRIAL Registered on 5th July 2023 at Open Science Framework [1].
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Lange
- Department of Fitness & Health, IST University of Applied Science, Erkrather Straße 220a-c, Duesseldorf, DE
| | - Alexandra Lowe
- Department of Fitness & Health, IST University of Applied Science, Erkrather Straße 220a-c, Duesseldorf, DE
| | - Ina Kayser
- Department of Communication & Business, IST University of Applied Science, Duesseldorf, DE
| | - Andrea Schaller
- Institute of Sport Science, Department of Human Sciences, University of the Bundeswehr Munich, Munich, DE
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Kai Y, Fujii Y, Takashi N, Yoshiba K, Muramatsu-Noguchi Y, Noda T, Jindo T, Kidokoro T, Yajima Y, Kasuga J, Arao T. Promoting health and productivity management in small companies through outreach-based public-private partnership: the Yokohama Linkworker Project. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1345771. [PMID: 39035181 PMCID: PMC11257930 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1345771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction With health promotion initiatives in small companies lagging behind those in larger corporations, strengthening health and productivity management in small companies through innovative strategies is an urgent priority. We hypothesized that an outreach strategy involving a public-private partnership would be beneficial for this purpose. The present study examines the implementation of a public-private partnership strategy in Yokohama City, Japan, assessing its impact on health and productivity management in small enterprises, focusing on implementation outcomes. Methods As part of the Yokohama Linkworker Project (Y-Link Project), this study describes and examines a public-private partnership program in Yokohama City, Japan, involving the city's government and a private life insurance company. Trained insurance sales representatives served as "Linkworkers" for the program, reaching out to small enterprises in the city. These Linkworkers provided tailored support to these companies, assisting them with obtaining the "Yokohama Health and Productivity Management Certification" issued by the City of Yokohama authorities and collaborating with external entities to offer health promotion programs for employees. Program interventions took place from August to September 2020. The RE-AIM framework was utilized to evaluate the Project. Data were extracted from Linkworkers' activity records, certification records, the Linkworker survey, and follow-up surveys with participating companies at 6- and 18- months post-interventions. Results Within 2 months, 71 Linkworkers visited 500 companies (50% were small firms, <50 employees). Among them, 224 (45%) enterprises received certifications, contributing to an increased regional certification rate. Linkworker-assisted companies tended to be significantly smaller in size. The odds ratios of implementing workplace health promotion programs in certified firms, compared to non-certified firms, were 4.09 (95% CI: 1.79-9.35) at 6 months and 2.31 (95% CI: 1.04-5.11) at 18 months. For small firms, the odds ratios were 6.87 (95% CI: 1.74-27.06) at 6 months and 3.42 (95% CI: 1.17-10.03) at 18 months. The certification retention rate at 24 months was 60%, irrespective of company size. Linkworkers perceived the outreach strategy as having a positive impact on their primary operations. Conclusion The Y-Link Project's outreach strategy enhanced health and productivity management in small enterprises in Yokohama City, enabling long-term health promotion programs addressing program availability disparities related to company size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Kai
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuya Fujii
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Takashi
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Health Economics, Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kaori Yoshiba
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Muramatsu-Noguchi
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Noda
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Jindo
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Art, Music, and Physical Education, Osaka Kyoiku University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tetsuhiro Kidokoro
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
- Faculty of Sport Science, Nippon Sport Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Yajima
- Health Promotion Division, Health and Social Welfare Bureau, Yokohama City Hall, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Junko Kasuga
- Health Insurance Bureau, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Arao
- Physical Fitness Research Institute, Meiji Yasuda Life Foundation of Health and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan
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Aust B, Leduc C, Cresswell-Smith J, O'Brien C, Rugulies R, Leduc M, Dhalaigh DN, Dushaj A, Fanaj N, Guinart D, Maxwell M, Reich H, Ross V, Sadath A, Schnitzspahn K, Tóth MD, van Audenhove C, van Weeghel J, Wahlbeck K, Arensman E, Greiner BA. The effects of different types of organisational workplace mental health interventions on mental health and wellbeing in healthcare workers: a systematic review. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2024; 97:485-522. [PMID: 38695906 PMCID: PMC11130054 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-024-02065-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if and which types of organisational interventions conducted in small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) in healthcare are effective on mental health and wellbeing. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched six scientific databases, assessed the methodological quality of eligible studies using QATQS and grouped them into six organisational intervention types for narrative synthesis. Only controlled studies with at least one follow-up were eligible. RESULTS We identified 22 studies (23 articles) mainly conducted in hospitals with 16 studies rated of strong or moderate methodological quality. More than two thirds (68%) of the studies reported improvements in at least one primary outcome (mental wellbeing, burnout, stress, symptoms of depression or anxiety), most consistently in burnout with eleven out of thirteen studies. We found a strong level of evidence for the intervention type "Job and task modifications" and a moderate level of evidence for the types "Flexible work and scheduling" and "Changes in the physical work environment". For all other types, the level of evidence was insufficient. We found no studies conducted with an independent SME, however five studies with SMEs attached to a larger organisational structure. The effectiveness of workplace mental health interventions in these SMEs was mixed. CONCLUSION Organisational interventions in healthcare workers can be effective in improving mental health, especially in reducing burnout. Intervention types where the change in the work environment constitutes the intervention had the highest level of evidence. More research is needed for SMEs and for healthcare workers other than hospital-based physicians and nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Aust
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Caleb Leduc
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Clíodhna O'Brien
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Reiner Rugulies
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mallorie Leduc
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Arilda Dushaj
- Community Centre for Health and Wellbeing, Tirana, Albania
| | - Naim Fanaj
- Per Mendje Te Shendoshe (PMSH), Prizren, Kosovo
- Alma Mater Europaea Campus Rezonanca, Pristina, Kosovo
| | - Daniel Guinart
- CIBERSAM, Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Salut Mental, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, USA
| | - Margaret Maxwell
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals Research Unit, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland
| | - Hanna Reich
- German Foundation for Depression and Suicide Prevention, Leipzig, Germany
- Depression Research Centre of the German Depression Foundation, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Victoria Ross
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Anvar Sadath
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Mónika Ditta Tóth
- Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Chantal van Audenhove
- KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Center for Care Research and Consultancy, LUCAS, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Jaap van Weeghel
- Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Wellbeing, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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Engels M, Scheepers L, Engels J, Boß L, Kuhlmann R, Kuske J, Lesener L, Pavlista V, Schmidt-Stiedenroth K, Diebig M, Ruhle SA, Zapkau FB, Angerer P, Hoewner J, Lehr D, Schwens C, Süß S, Wulf IC, Dragano N. Web-based occupational stress prevention in German micro- and small-sized enterprises - process evaluation results of an implementation study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1618. [PMID: 38886711 PMCID: PMC11184923 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19102-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Structural and behavioral interventions to manage work-related stress are effective in employees. Nonetheless, they have been implemented insufficiently, particularly in micro- and small-sized enterprises (MSE). Main barriers include a lack of knowledge and limited resources, which could potentially be overcome with simplified web-based alternatives for occupational stress prevention. However, there is a lack of implementation research about web-based prevention in realistic settings of MSE. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to evaluate the implementation process and success of an integrated web-based platform for occupational stress prevention ("System P") and to identify potential barriers for its uptake and use in MSE in Germany. METHODS This study with a mixed-methods approach investigates eight process-related outcomes in a quantitative part I (adoption, reach, penetration, fidelity/dose, costs, acceptability) and a qualitative part II (acceptability, appropriateness and feasibility). Part I has a pre-post design with two measurements (6 months apart) with 98 individual participants and part II consists of 12 semi-structured interviews with managers and intercorporate stakeholders. RESULTS Part I revealed shortcomings in the implementation process. Adoption/Reach: Despite extensive marketing efforts, less than 1% of the contacted MSE responded to the offer of System P. A total of 40 MSE registered, 24 of which, characterized by good psychosocial safety climate, adopted System P. Penetration: Within these 24 MSE, 15% of the employees used the system. Fidelity/Dose: 11 MSE started a psychosocial risk-assessment (PRA), and no MSE finished it. The stress-management training (SMT) was started by 25 users and completed by 8. COSTS The use of System P was free of charge, but the time required to engage with was an indirect cost. Part II added insights on the perception of the web-based intervention: Acceptance of System P by users and stakeholders was good and it was assessed as appropriate for MSE. Results for feasibility were mixed. CONCLUSIONS Although System P was generally perceived as useful and appropriate, only a small number of contacted MSE implemented it as intended. Prior experience and sensitivity for occupational (stress) prevention were mentioned as key facilitators, while (perceived) indirect costs were a key barrier. Enabling MSE to independently manage stress prevention online did not result in successful implementation. Increasing external support could be a solution. ⁺ FULL PROJECT NAME: "PragmatiKK - Pragmatische Lösungen für die Implementation von Maßnahmen zur Stressprävention in Kleinst- und Kleinbetrieben" (= Pragmatic solutions for the implementation of stress prevention interventions in micro and small-sized enterprises). TRIAL REGISTRATION German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS) DRKS00026154, date of registration 2021-09-16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Engels
- Department of Work and Organisational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, Valkenburgerweg 177, Heerlen, 6419 AT, The Netherlands
| | - Louisa Scheepers
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Judith Engels
- Department of Work and Organisational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, Valkenburgerweg 177, Heerlen, 6419 AT, The Netherlands
- Chair of Business Administration, in particular Work, Human Resource Management and Organization Studies, Faculty of Business Administration and Economics, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Leif Boß
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Luneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Rebekka Kuhlmann
- Chair of Business Administration, in particular Work, Human Resource Management and Organization Studies, Faculty of Business Administration and Economics, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Johanna Kuske
- Chair for Entrepreneurship and Management, Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, University of Cologne, Albertus‑Magnus‑Platz, 50923, Köln, Germany
| | - Lutz Lesener
- K12 Agentur für Kommunikation und Innovation GmbH, Schirmerstr. 76, 40211, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Valeria Pavlista
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kira Schmidt-Stiedenroth
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Mathias Diebig
- Department of Work and Organisational Psychology, Faculty I - Psychology, Trier University, Universitätsring 15, 54296, Trier, Germany
| | - Sascha A Ruhle
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Luneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany
- Department of Human Resource Studies, Tilburg University, Prof. Cobbenhagenlaan 225, Tilburg, 5037 DB, The Netherlands
| | - Florian B Zapkau
- Institute for International Business, Department of Global Business and Trade, Vienna University of Economics and Business, Welthandelsplatz 1, Wien, 1020, Austria
| | - Peter Angerer
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jörg Hoewner
- K12 Agentur für Kommunikation und Innovation GmbH, Schirmerstr. 76, 40211, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Dirk Lehr
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Luneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Christian Schwens
- Chair for Entrepreneurship and Management, Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, University of Cologne, Albertus‑Magnus‑Platz, 50923, Köln, Germany
| | - Stefan Süß
- Chair of Business Administration, in particular Work, Human Resource Management and Organization Studies, Faculty of Business Administration and Economics, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ines C Wulf
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- German Social Accident Insurance Institution for the Administrative Sector, Markgrafenstraße 18, 10969, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nico Dragano
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-University Dusseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Geboers L, de Vet E, Rongen FC, Poelman MP. More than the worksite cafeteria: the workplace food environment of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Netherlands. Public Health Nutr 2024; 27:e137. [PMID: 38679460 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980024000946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterise the food environment of Dutch small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), encompassing physical, sociocultural, economic and policy features and to explore variations within SMEs according to company characteristics (number of employees, location of work and presence of worksite cafeteria). DESIGN Online cross-sectional survey study of a representative Dutch SME sample by a panel agency. SETTING Dutch SMEs. PARTICIPANTS Three hundred and fifteen employees of Dutch SMEs responsible for food and drink in their company. RESULTS Most SMEs did not have a worksite cafeteria, no provision of fruits or vegetables, and did not offer discounts on food or drinks. The food environment of these SMEs varied significantly based on company characteristics. For example, SMEs with a worksite cafeteria were significantly more likely to have fruits (OR = 8·76, 95 % CI (4·50, 17·06)), vegetables (OR = 10·29, 95 % CI (5·49, 19·31)) and company food policies (OR = 5·04, 95 % CI (2·08, 12·20)) than SMEs without. Additionally, SMEs with ≥ 50 employees were more likely to have fruits (OR = 2·39, 95 % CI (1·42, 4·03)), vegetables (OR = 1·89, 95 % CI (1·04, 3·46)) and company food policies (OR = 2·82, 95 % CI (1·09, 7·29) than SMEs with < 50 employees. Moreover, having a worksite cafeteria (B = 0·23, 95 % CI (0·08, 0·38)) and employees working mostly on-site (B = 0·14, 95 % CI (0·01, 0·28)) were associated with stronger social norms of healthy and sustainable eating at work compared to SMEs without a worksite cafeteria and working mostly off-site. CONCLUSIONS In SMEs, an overall comprehensive picture of the food environment points to its limited active encouragement of healthy food choices, particularly so in small SMEs without a worksite cafeteria. Company characteristics strongly influence SME food environments and should be considered when developing interventions improving SME workplace food environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisanne Geboers
- Chair Group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Department of Social Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Emely de Vet
- Chair Group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Department of Social Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Frédérique C Rongen
- Chair Group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Department of Social Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Maartje P Poelman
- Chair Group Consumption and Healthy Lifestyles, Department of Social Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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Sasaki N, Shimazu T, Takeno H, Ogawa S, Sawada U, Tsutsumi A, Imamura K. Implementation of an internet-based stress management program in micro- and small-sized enterprises: a study protocol for a pre-post feasibility study of the effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 2 trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:56. [PMID: 38581058 PMCID: PMC10996202 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-024-01481-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although internet-based stress management programs are proven effective in improving mental health among workers, micro- and small-sized enterprises (MSEs), lacking in occupational healthcare services, face challenges implementing them. To address this gap, this study will develop the program with stakeholders at MSEs to aim for real-world implementation. OBJECTIVES This paper describes a study protocol for a pre-post feasibility study of an effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 2 trial of text-based internet-based programs ("WellBe-LINE") in MSEs with less than 50 employees. This feasibility study primarily aims to evaluate trial methods for future effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 2 trials. METHODS For this study protocol, an internet- and text-based self-care intervention program using the LINE app (a popular message tool in Japan) will be prepared according to evidence-based psychoeducational topics. Based on our online survey findings, personalized algorithms will be implemented according to employees' gender, age, and psychological distress levels. A personalized program using a popular pre-existing text app is expected to reduce employees' burdens and be attractive to them, resulting in successful implementation outcomes and mental health benefits. A pre-post design feasibility study will be conducted on ten companies to evaluate trial methods (e.g., recruitment and procedures). The primary outcome will involve individual-level penetration, defined as the proportion of the number of employees who register for the program divided by the total number of invited employees at the company. The progression criterion to go next trial specifies that more than 50% of the recruited companies obtain 60% individual penetration, which is set based on the findings of the prior survey of employees at MSEs and of interviews of stakeholders involved in this study, and will be measured by LINE system. Finally, acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility will be measured using internet-based questionnaires and interviews. DISCUSSION This pre-post feasibility study for future effectiveness-implementation hybrid type 2 trials will provide in-depth knowledge about the successful implementation of text-based, semi-personalized, self-care mental health interventions in real-world settings using both quantitative and qualitative data. CONCLUSIONS This feasibility study will help validate the effectiveness of text-based interventions using a widely used social networking service (SNS) tool for employees in MSEs. TRIAL REGISTRATION UMIN clinical trial registration, UMIN000046960. Registered on February 21, 2022. https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000053570.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsu Sasaki
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taichi Shimazu
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hajime Takeno
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sayaka Ogawa
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Utako Sawada
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akizumi Tsutsumi
- Department of Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Japan
| | - Kotaro Imamura
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- Department of Digital Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
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8
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Gómez-García AR, Chang AH, Valenzuela-Mendieta RO, García-Arroyo JA. Leaving no-one behind in the workplace health promotion: towards regulatory equity in the Ecuadorian micro-enterprises. J Public Health Policy 2024; 45:152-163. [PMID: 38233505 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-023-00466-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of workplace public health programmes and regulations is to promote safety and health for the entire working population nationwide. Some countries limit the scope of such programmes to medium or big-sized companies, leaving out small and micro-enterprises, thus discriminating against many workers exposed to risks. This Viewpoint aims to identify inequalities in occupational health generated by the new Regulation for Workplace Health Promotion (WHP) in Ecuador. We showed how the regulation excludes all micro-enterprises and displayed the essential role of micro-enterprises in the business fabric and the Ecuadorian labour market. More than 93% of the registered companies are micro-enterprises and these include more than 25% of the employees in the formal economy. Integrating occupational health into the public health system will require deep analysis to improve protection for the working population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alywin Hacay Chang
- Universidad Espíritu Santo UEES, Samborondón Avenue 5, Samborondón, 092301, Ecuador
- Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - José A García-Arroyo
- Universidad Espíritu Santo UEES, Samborondón Avenue 5, Samborondón, 092301, Ecuador.
- Universidad Internacional de la Rioja (UNIR), La Rioja, Spain.
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Hammerback K, Strait M, Kohn MJ, Garcia C, Harris JR, Hannon PA. Exploring the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Employees' Workplace Health Promotion Preferences. Am J Health Promot 2024; 38:238-241. [PMID: 37349879 PMCID: PMC10291210 DOI: 10.1177/08901171231185765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic has led to profound changes in the workplace as well as increases in stress, missed preventive care, and other health concerns. There is limited research since the onset of the pandemic on employees' primary health concerns and their willingness to engage with workplace health promotion (WHP) programs to address these needs. We conducted this survey about employees' current health priorities as a first step to exploring whether WHP programs need to evolve to be responsive to employees' needs at this stage of the pandemic. DESIGN National cross-sectional survey. SETTING United States, April 29-May 5, 2022. SUBJECTS 2053 Americans employed part or full time. MEASURES 17-item online survey assessing demographics, health priorities, and impact of the pandemic on health. ANALYSIS Descriptive statistics, SPSS Version 19. RESULTS Employees' most common health concerns included work/life balance and stress (each cited by 55%). Nearly half (46%) said their health or well-being was affected by the pandemic; within this group, the most common concerns were stress (66%), anxiety (61%), sleep (49%), and depression (48%). Almost all (94%) indicated they would be open to receiving support from their employers. CONCLUSION This research is a first step in learning about employees' current health priorities and how they may have changed. WHP researchers and practitioners can determine how their programs align with current priorities. Our future research will explore employees' preferences, heath behaviors, and their current workplace environments in more depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Hammerback
- Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michelle Strait
- Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Marlana J. Kohn
- Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cinthya Garcia
- Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jeffrey R. Harris
- Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peggy A. Hannon
- Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Tsantila F, Coppens E, De Witte H, Arensman E, Amann B, Cerga-Pashoja A, Corcoran P, Creswell-Smith J, Cully G, Toth MD, Greiner B, Griffin E, Hegerl U, Holland C, Leduc C, Leduc M, Ni Dhalaigh D, O'Brien C, Paterson C, Purebl G, Reich H, Ross V, Rugulies R, Sanches S, Thompson K, Van Audenhove C. Outcome assessment of a complex mental health intervention in the workplace. Results from the MENTUPP pilot study. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2023; 96:1149-1165. [PMID: 37452149 PMCID: PMC10504212 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-023-01996-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Multicomponent interventions are recommendable to achieve the greatest mental health benefits, but are difficult to evaluate due to their complexity. Defining long-term outcomes, arising from a Theory of Change (ToC) and testing them in a pilot phase, is a useful approach to plan a comprehensive and meaningful evaluation later on. This article reports on the pilot results of an outcome evaluation of a complex mental health intervention and examines whether appropriate evaluation measures and indicators have been selected ahead of a clustered randomised control trial (cRCT). METHODS The MENTUPP pilot is an evidence-based intervention for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) active in three work sectors and nine countries. Based on our ToC, we selected the MENTUPP long-term outcomes, which are reported in this article, are measured with seven validated scales assessing mental wellbeing, burnout, depression, anxiety, stigma towards depression and anxiety, absenteeism and presenteeism. The pilot MENTUPP intervention assessment took place at baseline and at 6 months follow-up. RESULTS In total, 25 SMEs were recruited in the MENTUPP pilot and 346 participants completed the validated scales at baseline and 96 at follow-up. Three long-term outcomes significantly improved at follow-up (p < 0.05): mental wellbeing, symptoms of anxiety, and personal stigmatising attitudes towards depression and anxiety. CONCLUSIONS The results of this outcome evaluation suggest that MENTUPP has the potential to strengthen employees' wellbeing and decrease anxiety symptoms and stigmatising attitudes. Additionally, this study demonstrates the utility of conducting pilot workplace interventions to assess whether appropriate measures and indicators have been selected. Based on the results, the intervention and the evaluation strategy have been optimised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotini Tsantila
- Centre for Care Research and Consultancy, LUCAS, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium.
| | - Evelien Coppens
- Centre for Care Research and Consultancy, LUCAS, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Hans De Witte
- Research Group Work, Organisational and Personnel Psychology (WOPP-O2L), KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Optentia Research Unit, Vaal Campus, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Benedikt Amann
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- Mental Health Institute Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fab, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arlinda Cerga-Pashoja
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Paul Corcoran
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Grace Cully
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Monika Ditta Toth
- Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Birgit Greiner
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Eve Griffin
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ulrich Hegerl
- European Alliance against Depression e.V., Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Carolyn Holland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Caleb Leduc
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Mallorie Leduc
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Cliodhna O'Brien
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Charlotte Paterson
- University of Stirling, Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals Research Unit, Stirling, Scotland, UK
| | - György Purebl
- Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Hanna Reich
- German Depression Foundation, Leipzig, Germany
- Depression Research Centre of the German Depression Foundation, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Victoria Ross
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Reiner Rugulies
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sarita Sanches
- Phrenos Center of Expertise for Severe mental illness, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Altrecht Mental Health Care, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Chantal Van Audenhove
- Centre for Care Research and Consultancy, LUCAS, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Academic Center for General Practice, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
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11
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McAden EP, Leff MS, Staley JA, Greenberg RW, Nylander-French LA, Linnan LA. Feasibility of Implementing a Total Worker Health® Intervention During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Small and Medium Businesses : Results From the Carolina PROSPER Study. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:880-889. [PMID: 37550988 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In response to the COVID-19 pandemic's disruptive effect on employers and workers, an interdisciplinary team launched the Carolina Promoting Safe Practices for Employees' Return study to assess the feasibility of providing tailored technical assistance to small and medium North Carolina businesses using a Total Worker Health (TWH) ® approach. METHODS Feasibility of the approach was assessed via surveys and interviews of business representatives from four participating businesses ranging in size from 3 to 110 employees. RESULTS The TWH approach is feasible, that is, in demand, practical, and acceptable to protect and promote worker safety, health, and well-being. Potential challenges include implementation cost, difficulty engaging all employees, and difficulty accessing tailored health and safety materials in a timely manner. CONCLUSIONS Additional refinement and testing of the TWH approach postpandemic with more worksites is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily P McAden
- From the North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Education and Research Center, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (E.P.M., J.A.S., R.W.G., L.A.N.-F.); Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (M.S.L., L.A.L.); Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (J.A.S., L.A.N.-F.); and The Center for Construction Research and Training, Silver Spring, Maryland (R.W.G.)
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12
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Coppens E, Hogg B, Greiner BA, Paterson C, de Winter L, Mathieu S, Cresswell-Smith J, Aust B, Leduc C, Van Audenhove C, Pashoja AC, Kim D, Reich H, Fanaj N, Dushaj A, Thomson K, O'Connor C, Moreno-Alcázar A, Amann BL, Arensman E. Promoting employee wellbeing and preventing non-clinical mental health problems in the workplace: a preparatory consultation survey. J Occup Med Toxicol 2023; 18:17. [PMID: 37582790 PMCID: PMC10426174 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-023-00378-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face major financial losses due to mental health issues affecting employees at all levels but seldom apply programs to promote wellbeing and prevent mental health issues among employees. To support the development of a multi-country workplace-based mental health intervention for SMEs (MENTUPP), a multinational consultation study was conducted. The study aimed to examine the experiences and needs of SMEs concerning the promotion of employee wellbeing, and the prevention and management of non-clinical mental health problems in workplaces. METHODS A survey consisting of open and closed questions was designed to assess key informants' opinion about the acceptability, the use, and the implementation of interventions to promote wellbeing and prevent mental health issues in the workplace. Academic experts and representatives of SME organisations, specific sector organisations, labour or advocacy groups, and occupational health organisations across the nine MENTUPP intervention countries (eight European countries and Australia) were invited to complete the survey. Data were collected via the online platform Qualtrics. Sixty-five of 146 informants responded, representing a 44.5% response rate. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data and qualitative data were analysed through thematic analysis. RESULTS Measures to create mentally healthy workplaces were most used in SMEs, while more specific mental health interventions, such as training staff on how to promote wellbeing, were hardly used. Managers lack resources to implement mental health interventions and are concerned about employees spending too much time on these interventions during working hours. Receiving information about the economic benefits of mental health interventions and hearing successful testimonials from other SMEs can persuade managers otherwise. Employees have concerns about confidentiality, discrimination and stigma, and career opportunities when using such interventions. CONCLUSIONS The study identifies a variety of challenges, needs and possibilities related to implementing mental health interventions in SMEs. Employers need to be convinced that investing in mental health in the workplace is worth their time and money. This requires more studies on the (cost-)effectiveness of mental health interventions. Once employers are engaged, their knowledge and competencies about how to implement such interventions should be increased and privacy concerns of employees to participate in them should be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelien Coppens
- LUCAS Center for care research and consultancy, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bridget Hogg
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Charlotte Paterson
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals Research Unit (NMAHP-RU), University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland
| | | | - Sharna Mathieu
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention & W.H.O Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Birgit Aust
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Caleb Leduc
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Arlinda C Pashoja
- School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Population Health, Global Public Health, Public Health England, LondonLondon, UK
| | - Dooyoung Kim
- European Alliance Against Depression E.V, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hanna Reich
- Depression Research Centre, German Depression Foundation, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Naim Fanaj
- Per Mendje Te Shendoshe, Prizren, Kosovo
- Alma Mater Europaea Campus Rezonanca, Prishtina, Kosovo
| | - Arilda Dushaj
- Community Centre for Health and Wellbeing, Tirana, Albania
| | - Katherine Thomson
- International Association for Suicide Prevention, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Ana Moreno-Alcázar
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Benedikt L Amann
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Mental Health, Hospital del Mar Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum Der Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health and National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
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Tsantila F, Coppens E, De Witte H, Abdulla K, Amann BL, Arensman E, Aust B, Creswell-Smith J, D'Alessandro L, De Winter L, Doukani A, Fanaj N, Greiner B, Griffin E, Leduc C, Maxwell M, Connor CO, Paterson C, Purebl G, Reich H, Ross V, Van Weeghel J, Van Audenhove C. Developing a framework for evaluation: a Theory of Change for complex workplace mental health interventions. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1171. [PMID: 37330460 PMCID: PMC10276374 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16092-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a gap between the necessity of effective mental health interventions in the workplace and the availability of evidence-based information on how to evaluate them. The available evidence outlines that mental health interventions should follow integrated approaches combining multiple components related to different levels of change. However, there is a lack of robust studies on how to evaluate multicomponent workplace interventions which target a variety of outcomes at different levels taking into account the influence of different implementation contexts. METHOD We use the MENTUPP project as a research context to develop a theory-driven approach to facilitate the evaluation of complex mental health interventions in occupational settings and to provide a comprehensive rationale of how these types of interventions are expected to achieve change. We used a participatory approach to develop a ToC involving a large number of the project team representing multiple academic backgrounds exploiting in tandem the knowledge from six systematic reviews and results from a survey among practitioners and academic experts in the field of mental health in SMEs. RESULTS The ToC revealed four long-term outcomes that we assume MENTUPP can achieve in the workplace: 1) improved mental wellbeing and reduced burnout, 2) reduced mental illness, 3) reduced mental illness-related stigma, and 4) reduced productivity losses. They are assumed to be reached through six proximate and four intermediate outcomes according to a specific chronological order. The intervention consists of 23 components that were chosen based on specific rationales to achieve change on four levels (employee, team, leader, and organization). CONCLUSIONS The ToC map provides a theory of how MENTUPP is expected to achieve its anticipated long-term outcomes through intermediate and proximate outcomes assessing alongside contextual factors which will facilitate the testing of hypotheses. Moreover, it allows for a structured approach to informing the future selection of outcomes and related evaluation measures in either subsequent iterations of complex interventions or other similarly structured programs. Hence, the resulting ToC can be employed by future research as an example for the development of a theoretical framework to evaluate complex mental health interventions in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotini Tsantila
- LUCAS, Centre for Care Research and Consultancy, KU Leuven, 3000, Louvain, Belgium.
| | - Evelien Coppens
- LUCAS, Centre for Care Research and Consultancy, KU Leuven, 3000, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Hans De Witte
- Research Group Work, Organizational and Personnel Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences- O2L/WOPP KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Optentia Research Focus Area, North-West University, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
| | - Kahar Abdulla
- European Alliance Against Depression, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Benedikt L Amann
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addiction (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, CIBERSAM, Spain
- Univ. Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum Der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Birgit Aust
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, 2100, Copenhagen, DK, Denmark
| | - Johanna Creswell-Smith
- Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) Equality Unit - Mental Health Team, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Luigia D'Alessandro
- International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), 5221 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington DC, 20015, USA
| | - Lars De Winter
- Phrenos Center of Expertise, Da Costakade 45, 3521 VS, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Asmae Doukani
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, UK
| | - Naim Fanaj
- Mental Health Center Prizren, Prizren, Kosovo, USA
- Almae Mater Europaea Campus College Rezonanca, Prishtina, Kosovo, USA
| | - Birgit Greiner
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Eve Griffin
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Caleb Leduc
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Margaret Maxwell
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Cliodhna O' Connor
- National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Charlotte Paterson
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - György Purebl
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Semmelweis University, 1085, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Hanna Reich
- German Depression Foundation, 04109, Leipzig, Germany
- Depression Research Centre of the German Depression Foundation, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, 60528, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Victoria Ross
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, 4122, Australia
| | - Jaap Van Weeghel
- Phrenos Center of Expertise, Da Costakade 45, 3521 VS, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welbeing, Tilburg University, Postbus 90153, 5000, LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Chantal Van Audenhove
- LUCAS, Centre for Care Research and Consultancy, KU Leuven, 3000, Louvain, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, 3000, Louvain, Belgium
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Saito J, Odawara M, Fujimori M, Kuchiba A, Oyamada S, Swe KT, Saito E, Fukai K, Tatemichi M, Nakamura M, Uchitomi Y, Shimazu T. Interactive assistance via eHealth for small- and medium-sized enterprises' employer and health care manager teams on tobacco control (eSMART-TC): protocol for a cluster randomized hybrid type II trial (N-EQUITY2101/J-SUPPORT2102). Implement Sci Commun 2023; 4:61. [PMID: 37287041 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00444-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tobacco control should be a higher public health priority in Japan. Some workplaces provide smoking cessation support and connect employees to effective smoking cessation treatments such as outpatient clinics. However, tobacco control measures have not been sufficiently implemented in Japan, especially in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), where resources are limited. Organizational commitment and consistent leadership are crucial to facilitate implementation, but research on whether supporting organizational leaders leads to health behavior changes among employees is limited. METHODS This hybrid type II cluster randomized effectiveness implementation trial (eSMART-TC) aims to examine the effects of interactive assistance for SME management on health and implementation outcomes. We will provide interactive assistance to employers and health managers for 6 months, aiming to promote the utilization of reimbursed smoking cessation treatments by public health insurance and to implement smoke-free workplaces. The intervention will consist of three strategies: supporting employees through campaigns, tailored ongoing facilitation, and ensuring executive engagement and support. The primary health and implementation outcomes will be salivary cotinine-validated 7-day point-prevalence abstinence rate, and the adoption of two recommended measures (promoting utilization of smoking cessation treatment and implementing smoke-free workplaces) 6 months after the initial session, respectively. Other outcomes for implementation (e.g., penetration of smoking cessation clinic visits), health (e.g., salivary cotinine-validated 7-day point-prevalence abstinence rate at 12 months), and process (e.g., adherence and potential moderating factors) will be collected via questionnaires, interviews, logbooks, and interventionists' notes at 6 and 12 months. An economic analysis will be undertaken to assess the cost-effectiveness of the implementation interventions at 12 months. DISCUSSION This will be the first cluster randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of an implementation intervention with interactive assistance for employers and health managers in SMEs on smoking cessation and implementation of evidence-based tobacco control measures in SMEs. The findings of this trial targeting management in SMEs have the potential to accelerate the implementation of evidence-based smoking cessation methods as well as abstinence rates among employees in SMEs across Japan. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study protocol has been registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR; ID: UMIN000044526). Registered on 06/14/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junko Saito
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyuki Odawara
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maiko Fujimori
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Survivorship Research, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
- Innovation Center for Supportive, Palliative and Psychosocial Care, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aya Kuchiba
- Division of Biostatistical Research, Institute for Cancer Control/Biostatistics Division, CRAS, National Cancer Center, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Health Innovation, Kanagawa University of Human Services, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Khin Thet Swe
- Research Center for Health Policy and Economics, Hitotsubashi Institute for Advanced Study, Hitotsubashi University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Eiko Saito
- Institute for Global Health Policy Research, Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kota Fukai
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masayuki Tatemichi
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Tokai University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masakazu Nakamura
- Health Promotion Research Center, Institute of Community Medicine, Japan Association for Development of Community Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Uchitomi
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Survivorship Research, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
- Innovation Center for Supportive, Palliative and Psychosocial Care, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taichi Shimazu
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan.
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Lang G, Jiménez P. Quality changes in workplace health promotion over time: an extended validation of quality criteria from a longitudinal perspective. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37361262 PMCID: PMC10243243 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-023-01956-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Aim The quality of workplace health promotion (WHP) is essential for the successful deployment of financial and human resources. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the measurement quality of a WHP instrument with 15 quality criteria over time. In addition, it examines whether the quality of WHP in the enterprises concerned changed over time and whether typical developments can be identified. Finally, the role of company parameters such as size and implementation phase are analysed in relation to how WHP develops over time. Subjects and methods Evaluations of the quality of WHP collected between 2014 and 2021 were available at two and three measurement points for 570 and 279 enterprises, respectively. To assess the longitudinal measurement structure, confirmatory factor analyses were carried out followed by structural equation modelling to analyse causality. Cluster analysis was used to identify typical developments, and differences in company parameters were analysed with MANOVA. Results The results prove that the 15 quality criteria can be used to evaluate the quality of WHP in enterprises in a valid and reliable manner, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. The quality of WHP in the enterprises concerned remained relatively stable over approximately 12 years. The cluster solution revealed three different developments characterized by increasing, stable or decreasing quality. Conclusion Measurements using a quality evaluation system permit a good assessment of WHP in enterprises. WHP quality also depends on company parameters; here more support should be provided to motivate enterprises in the long run, particularly in the sustainability phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gert Lang
- Austrian Health Promotion Fund, Austrian National Public Health Institute, Vienna, Austria
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Dannheim I, Buyken AE, Kroke A. Work-related stressors and coping behaviors among leaders in small and medium-sized IT and technological services enterprises. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:700. [PMID: 37059975 PMCID: PMC10103039 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15581-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational health interventions for leaders are underrepresented in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). When creating and developing effective occupational health interventions, identification of the specific needs of the target group is regarded as an essential step before planning an intervention. Therefore, the aim of this study was (1) to examine the subjectively experienced work-related stressors of leaders in small and medium-sized IT and technological services enterprises, (2) to explore coping behaviors leaders use to deal with the experienced work-related stressors, (3) to investigate resources supporting the coping process and (4) to identify potentially self-perceived consequences resulting from the experienced stressors. METHODS Ten semi-structured interviews with leaders in small and medium-sized IT and technological services enterprises were conducted. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed with content-structuring qualitative content analysis in accordance to Kuckartz. RESULTS Leaders in small and medium-sized IT and technological services enterprises experience various stressors caused by work organization as well as industry-related stressors and other work-related stressors. To address the experienced stressors, leaders apply problem focused coping behaviors (e.g. performing changes on structural and personal level), emotional focused coping behaviors (e.g. balancing activities, cognitive restructuring) as well as the utilization of social support. Helpful resources for the coping process include organizational, social and personal resources. As a result of the experienced work-related stressors, interviewees stated to experience different health impairments, negative effects on work quality as well as neglect of leisure activities and lack of time for family and friends. CONCLUSION The identified experienced work-related stressors, applied coping behaviors, utilized resources and emerging consequences underpin the urgent need for the development and performance of health-oriented leadership interventions for leaders in small and medium- sized IT and technological services. The results of this study can be used when designing a target-oriented intervention for the examined target group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indra Dannheim
- Regional Innovative Centre of Health and Quality of Live Fulda (RIGL), Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, Germany.
- Department of Nutritional, Food and Consumer Sciences, Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, Germany.
| | - Anette E Buyken
- Institute of Nutrition, Consumption and Health, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Paderborn University, Paderborn, Germany
| | - Anja Kroke
- Regional Innovative Centre of Health and Quality of Live Fulda (RIGL), Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, Germany
- Department of Nutritional, Food and Consumer Sciences, Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Fulda, Germany
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Hogg B, Moreno-Alcázar A, Tóth MD, Serbanescu I, Aust B, Leduc C, Paterson C, Tsantilla F, Abdulla K, Cerga-Pashoja A, Cresswell-Smith J, Fanaj N, Meksi A, Ni Dhalaigh D, Reich H, Ross V, Sanches S, Thomson K, Van Audenhove C, Pérez V, Arensman E, Purebl G, Amann BL. Supporting employees with mental illness and reducing mental illness-related stigma in the workplace: an expert survey. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2023; 273:739-753. [PMID: 35867155 PMCID: PMC9305029 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-022-01443-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
An expert survey was designed to support the development of a workplace-based multi-country intervention tackling depression, anxiety, and mental illness-related stigma in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Academic experts and representatives of SME organisations, specific sector organisations, labour or advocacy groups, and occupational health organisations, were contacted across eight European countries and Australia. The survey comprised closed and open text questions to assess expert opinion about interventions for employees with mental health difficulties, interventions supporting their managers, and anti-stigma interventions. The survey was available in six languages. The online platform Qualtrics was used for data collection. Quantitative data was analysed through descriptive statistics and qualitative data was analysed through thematic analysis. Sixty-five of 146 experts responded, representing a 42% response rate. Results showed only 26.2% of experts agreed that employees could speak openly about mental health issues, and 81.5% of experts indicated a large or medium unmet need for support for employees with mental health issues. Psychoeducational materials, face-to-face workshops and interventions based on cognitive behavioural therapy were ranked most likely to be taken up by employees. Experts rated as most useful for managers' guidelines on how to act if an employee has mental health issues (67.7%). The greatest number of experts indicated workshops of people with lived experience of mental illness (80.0%) and awareness campaigns (78.5%) were most required to tackle stigma. Responses were consistent between experts from different countries and areas of expertise. Experts in this multinational survey assessed that interventions supporting mental health in the workplace and tackling stigma are greatly needed. A multicomponent intervention with a wide range of materials and tools is supported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Hogg
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addiction (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- Mental Health Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
- PhD Programme, Dept. of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Moreno-Alcázar
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addiction (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- Mental Health Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónika Ditta Tóth
- Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Semmelweis University, Semmelweis Egyetem Magatartástudományi Intézet, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ilinca Serbanescu
- Faculty of Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Birgit Aust
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Caleb Leduc
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
| | - Charlotte Paterson
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals Research Unit, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland
| | - Fotini Tsantilla
- LUCAS, Center for Care Research and Consultancy, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Kahar Abdulla
- European Alliance Against Depression E.V, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Arlinda Cerga-Pashoja
- Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
- Global Public Health, Public Health England, Greenwich, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Hanna Reich
- Depression Research Centre of the German Depression Foundation, Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Depression Foundation, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Victoria Ross
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, Griffith University, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Sarita Sanches
- Phrenos Center of Expertise for Severe Mental Illness, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Katherine Thomson
- International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), Washington, DC, USA
| | - Chantal Van Audenhove
- LUCAS, Center for Care Research and Consultancy, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Victor Pérez
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addiction (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- Mental Health Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, Griffith University, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
- International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), Washington, DC, USA
| | - Gyorgy Purebl
- Institute of Behavioural Sciences, Semmelweis University, Semmelweis Egyetem Magatartástudományi Intézet, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Benedikt L Amann
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addiction (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
- Mental Health Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University Hospital Munich, Nussbaumstraße 7, Munich, Germany
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Guerin RJ, Barile JP, Groenewold MR, Free HL, Okun AH. COVID-19 Workplace Mitigation Strategies and Employee Leave Policies Implemented during the Height of the Pandemic, United States, Fall 2020 and 2021. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2894. [PMID: 36833588 PMCID: PMC9956394 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 workplace mitigation strategies implemented within US businesses have been effective at preventing disease and protecting workers, but the extent of their use is not well understood. We examined reported COVID-19 workplace mitigation strategies by business size, geographic region, and industry using internet panel survey data from US adult respondents working full- or part-time outside the home (fall 2020, N = 1168) andfull- or part-time, inside or outside the home (fall 2021, N = 1778). We used chi-square tests to assess the differences in the strategies used (e.g., masking and COVID-19 screening) and ANOVA tests to examine the group differences on a mitigation strategies summative score. Fewer COVID-19 mitigation strategies were reported by respondents in fall 2021 (compared to fall 2020) across businesses of different sizes and regions. The participants in microbusinesses (1-10 employees) reported significantly (p < 0.05) lower mitigation scores than all other business sizes, and the respondents in these businesses were significantly less likely (p < 0.05) to have paid leave than those in enterprises with >10 employees. The healthcare and education sectors had the highest reported mean score of COVID-19 workplace mitigation strategies. Small and essential businesses are critical to the US economy. Insight is needed on their use of mitigation strategies to protect workers during the current and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Guerin
- Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA
| | - John P. Barile
- College of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Matthew R. Groenewold
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA
| | - Hannah L. Free
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA
| | - Andrea H. Okun
- Division of Science Integration, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA
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Lee J, Lee S, Lee W, Lee SH, Kwack WG, Kang YJ. Underestimation of smoking hazards and smoking cessation intervention efficiency among healthcare professionals: A cross-sectional study among Korean occupational health nurses. Tob Induc Dis 2023; 21:55. [PMID: 37153728 PMCID: PMC10161686 DOI: 10.18332/tid/162320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Occupational health nurses (OHNs) in South Korea who visit the workplace periodically could play a key role in smoking cessation. It would be helpful to assess their understanding of smoking hazards and smoking cessation methods to encourage them to provide smoking intervention services at the workplace. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge of smoking hazards and perceptions of smoking cessation methods among OHNs. METHODS We conducted an anonymous self-administered cross-sectional questionnaire survey of 108 OHN nurses employed in an occupational health service outsourcing specialized agency with 19 regional branches in Korea from July to August 2019. We assessed the perceptions of the OHNs about smoking interventions, hazards of smoking, and perceived competence to counsel smokers according to training experience, using chi-squared tests and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS The majority of the nurses underestimated the smoking-attributable fraction for lung cancer (78.7%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (64.8%), and mortality (49.0%), regardless of training experience on smoking cessation, while more than half perceived their skill and knowledge to counsel patients concerning smoking as inadequate (56.5%). However, those trained in smoking cessation interventions felt more competent in smoking cessation counselling, with 52.2% and 29.3% in the trained and non-trained groups, respectively (p=0.019). CONCLUSIONS The OHNs in this study underestimated smoking hazards and perceived themselves as lacking counselling skills regarding smoking cessation interventions. It is necessary to encourage OHNs to promote smoking cessation by increasing their knowledge, skills and competence in smoking cessation interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihye Lee
- Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Saerom Lee
- Korean Industrial Health Association, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woncheol Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, School of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hyeun Lee
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Gun Kwack
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joong Kang
- COMWEL Incheon Hospital, Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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Odawara M, Saito J, Yaguchi-Saito A, Fujimori M, Uchitomi Y, Shimazu T. Using implementation mapping to develop strategies for preventing non-communicable diseases in Japanese small- and medium-sized enterprises. Front Public Health 2022; 10:873769. [PMID: 36276371 PMCID: PMC9582744 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.873769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Workplace programs to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the workplace can help prevent the incidence of chronic diseases among employees, provide health benefits, and reduce the risk of financial loss. Nevertheless, these programs are not fully implemented, particularly in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The purpose of this study was to develop implementation strategies for health promotion activities to prevent NCDs in Japanese SMEs using Implementation Mapping (IM) to present the process in a systematic, transparent, and replicable manner. Methods Qualitative methods using interviews and focus group discussions with 15 SMEs and 20 public health nurses were conducted in a previous study. This study applied the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and IM to analyze this dataset to develop implementation strategies suitable for SMEs in Japan. Results In task 2 of the IM, we identified performance objectives, determinants, and change objectives for each implementation stage: adoption, implementation, and maintenance; to identify the required actors and actions necessary to enhance implementation effectiveness. Twenty-two performance objectives were identified in each implementation stage. In task 3 of the IM, the planning group matched behavioral change methods (e.g., modeling and setting of graded tasks, framing, self-re-evaluation, and environmental re-evaluation) with determinants to address the performance objectives. We used a consolidated framework for implementation research to select the optimal behavioral change technique for performance objectives and determinants and designed a practical application. The planning team agreed on the inclusion of sixteen strategies from the final strategies list compiled and presented to it for consensus, for the overall implementation plan design. Discussion This paper provides the implementation strategies for NCDs prevention for SMEs in Japan following an IM protocol. Although the identified implementation strategies might not be generalizable to all SMEs planning implementation of health promotion activities, because they were tailored to contextual factors identified in a formative research. However, identified performance objectives and implementation strategies can help direct the next steps in launching preventive programs against NCDs in SMEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miyuki Odawara
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junko Saito
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akiko Yaguchi-Saito
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maiko Fujimori
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan,Division of Supportive Care, Survivorship and Translational Research, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Uchitomi
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan,Division of Supportive Care, Survivorship and Translational Research, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan,Innovation Center for Supportive, Palliative and Psychosocial Care, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taichi Shimazu
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, Tokyo, Japan,*Correspondence: Taichi Shimazu
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Parkinson R, Jessiman-Perreault G, Frenette N, Allen Scott LK. Exploring Multilevel Workplace Tobacco Control Interventions: A Scoping Review. Workplace Health Saf 2022; 70:368-382. [PMID: 35506219 DOI: 10.1177/21650799221081265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The workplace provides a unique opportunity to intervene on tobacco use, by implementing multilevel interventions engaging diverse employees. Using the social ecological model (SEM), this scoping review aimed to synthesize descriptions of multilevel workplace tobacco control programs to create a health equity informed framework for intervention planning. METHODS Multiple databases were searched for articles published from January 2010 to December 2020 meeting inclusion criteria (i.e., discussed multilevel tobacco cessation interventions that intervene, target, or incorporate two or more levels of influence, and one of the levels must be the workplace). Articles were screened by two independent researchers and included if they discussed multilevel tobacco cessation interventions that intervened, targeted, or incorporated two or more levels of influence. To integrate the extracted information into the SEM, we utilized the McLeroy et al. model and definitions to describe potential multilevel interventions and their determinants. RESULTS Nine articles were included in this review. No studies intervened across all five levels (individual, interpersonal, institutional, community, and policy), and the most common levels of intervention were individual (e.g., individual counseling), interpersonal (e.g., group therapy), and institutional (e.g., interventions during work hours). Participation rates varied by key social determinants of health (SDOHs) such as age, gender, education and income. Barriers including cost and sustainability influenced successful implementation, while leadership endorsement and accessibility facilitated successful implementation. DISCUSSION/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE Multilevel interventions targeting at least two SEM levels may reduce persistent health inequities if they address how SDOHs influence individual health behaviors. Employee characteristics impacted the success of tobacco cessation interventions, but more research is needed to understand the barriers and facilitators related to workplace characteristics.
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Schwatka NV, Dally M, Shore E, Tenney L, Brown CE, Scott JG, Dexter L, Newman LS. Small + Safe + Well: lessons learned from a Total Worker Health® randomized intervention to promote organizational change in small business. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1039. [PMID: 35610627 PMCID: PMC9128251 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13435-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leadership commitment to worker safety and health is one of the most important factors when organizations develop and implement a Total Worker Health® approach. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Total Worker Health ("TWH") leadership development program that targeted owners and other senior-level leadership positions on changing organizational and worker outcomes from baseline to one-year later. METHODS The Small + Safe + Well study included small businesses from a variety of industries in the state of Colorado, USA that were participating in Health Links™. We designed a randomized waitlisted control comparison design (RCT) to evaluate the added benefit of a TWH leadership development program. An employer assessment tool was used to assess TWH policies and programs, and an employee health and safety survey was used to assess safety leadership and health leadership practices, safety climate and health climate, safety behaviors and health behaviors, and well-being. We used a linear mixed model framework with random effects for business and employee to assess the impact of intervention on the outcomes of interest. RESULTS Thirty-six businesses (37% retention) and 250 employees (9% retention) met the RCT study inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Businesses improved their TWH policies and programs score from baseline to one-year later, regardless of leadership intervention group assignment. Neither intervention group demonstrated improvements in employee-reported outcomes. CONCLUSIONS This study sought to address a gap in the literature regarding small business senior leadership development for TWH. Our study demonstrates many of the challenges of conducting studies focused on organizational change in workplaces, specifically in small businesses. When designing TWH intervention studies, researchers should consider how to best engage small business leaders in interventions and implementations early on, as well as methods that are well matched to measuring primary and secondary outcomes longitudinally. Future research is needed to test the feasibility and sustainability of TWH interventions in small business. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was retrospectively registered with ClinicalTrials.gov ( ID U19OH011227 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie V Schwatka
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Miranda Dally
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Erin Shore
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Present Address: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Liliana Tenney
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Carol E Brown
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Joshua G Scott
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Present Address: 2U, Inc., Lanham, MD, USA
| | - Lynn Dexter
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Lee S Newman
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, and Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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Effects of Sedentary Behavior Interventions on Mental Well-Being and Work Performance While Working from Home during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116401. [PMID: 35681986 PMCID: PMC9180109 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Sedentary behavior negatively impacts mental health, which can decrease employee productivity. Employee mental well-being and work performance may improve with sedentary reduction interventions, especially strategies that include environmental workplace modifications and behavior-changing strategies. However, such interventions have not been examined among employees working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the Stand Up Kansas program, 95 sedentary university employees working from home were randomized into one of four intervention arms: height-adjustable desk provision (Desk Only), online sedentary behavior modification program (Program Only), Desk + Program, or Control. The outcomes were measured at a baseline (November 2020) and following the 12-week intervention (February 2021). Employees reported mood (positive and negative affect), stress, fatigue (duration, interference with activities and severity) and work performance (irritability, focus, work satisfaction, non-work satisfaction and productivity) were measured using established self-report instruments. The effect sizes, by comparing the Control arm to the Desk + Program arm, revealed large improvements in mood (positive affect, d = 1.106). Moderate improvements were also seen in fatigue (duration, d = −0.533, and interference with activities, d = −0.648) and several aspects of work performance (focus, d = 0.702, work satisfaction, d = 0.751, and productivity, d = 0.572). Moderate effect sizes were also seen for positive affect (d = 0.566) and fatigue severity (d = 0.577) among the Program Only arm, whereas no noteworthy effect sizes were observed among the Desk Only arm. Combining an online sedentary behavior modification program with height-adjustable desk provisions appeared to positively affect mental well-being and work performance among remote employees.
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Kava CM, Ruiz RA, Harris JR, Hannon PA. Worksite tobacco control - a qualitative study on perspectives from employers and employees at small worksites. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:904. [PMID: 35524298 PMCID: PMC9073486 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13346-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence-based interventions (EBIs) for tobacco control can be implemented in worksite settings to reduce tobacco use. Small worksites are less likely to adopt tobacco control EBIs than large worksites. The purpose of this qualitative study was to 1) explore factors that impact small employers' decisions to offer tobacco control EBIs, and 2) understand employees' perceptions of tobacco control at small worksites. METHODS Working with staff from small worksites (20-250 employees), we analyzed data from 12 semi-structured interviews with employers (via key informants) and four focus groups with employees. We recruited employers and employees through a purchased business list and market research company, respectively. Interview and focus group topics included perceptions of worksite tobacco control; internal and external forces shaping worksite tobacco control implementation; and perceived worksite support for cessation. We conducted thematic data analysis. RESULTS Key themes from the employer interviews included: the local environment played an important role in implementation of tobacco control EBIs; tobacco control was perceived as important but not a priority; and tobacco control decisions were driven by worksite culture. Key themes from the employee focus groups included: perceived employer support for tobacco cessation was limited although there was interest from employees; employees who currently used tobacco were stigmatized for their behavior; and incentives and coaching were considered ideal tobacco control EBIs. CONCLUSIONS Tobacco control has not been prioritized at small worksites, despite employees welcoming additional cessation support. This study contributes important information on contextual factors and employee preferences that could be targeted to improve tobacco control EBI implementation. Worksites should implement comprehensive tobacco-free policies, minimize stigma when promoting cessation, establish equitable break policies, and involve employees in decision-making related to tobacco control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Kava
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA.
- Health Promotion Research Center, University of Washington, 3980 15th Avenue NE, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| | - Raymond A Ruiz
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jeffrey R Harris
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peggy A Hannon
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
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Engels M, Boß L, Engels J, Kuhlmann R, Kuske J, Lepper S, Lesener L, Pavlista V, Diebig M, Lunau T, Ruhle SA, Zapkau FB, Angerer P, Hoewner J, Lehr D, Schwens C, Süß S, Wulf IC, Dragano N. Facilitating stress prevention in micro and small-sized enterprises: protocol for a mixed method study to evaluate the effectiveness and implementation process of targeted web-based interventions. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:591. [PMID: 35346127 PMCID: PMC8959270 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12921-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Workplace-related stress is a major risk factor for mental and physical health problems and related sickness absence and productivity loss. Despite evidence regarding the effectiveness of different workplace-based interventions, the implementation of stress prevention interventions is rare, especially in micro and small-sized enterprises (MSE) with fewer than 50 employees. The joint research project “PragmatiKK”+ aims to identify and address the specific barriers to the implementation of stress prevention interventions in MSE. This study protocol describes a mixed method study design to evaluate the effectiveness of adapted stress prevention interventions and the implementation process via an integrated web-based platform (“System P”) specifically targeted at MSE. Methods First, we develop a web-based intervention, which accounts for the specific working conditions in MSE and addresses stress prevention at a structural and behavioral level. Second, we use common methods of implementation research to perform an effect and process evaluation. We analyze the effectiveness of the web-based stress prevention interventions by comparing depressive symptoms at baseline and follow-up (after 6 months and 12 months). Indicators for a successful implementation process include acceptability, adoption, feasibility, reach, dose, and fidelity, which we will measure with quantitative web-based questionnaires and qualitative interviews. We will also analyze the accumulated usage data from the web-based platform. Discussion Collecting data on the implementation process and the effectiveness of a web-based intervention will help to identify and overcome common barriers to stress prevention in MSE. This can improve the mental health of employees in MSE, which constitute more than 90% of all enterprises in Germany. + Full Project Name: „PragmatiKK - Pragmatische Lösungen für die Implementation von Maßnahmen zur Stressprävention in Kleinst- und Kleinbetrieben “(= Pragmatic solutions for the implementation of stress prevention interventions in micro and small-sized enterprises). Trial registration German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS): DRKS00026154, date of registration: 2021-09-16. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12921-7.
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Saito J, Odawara M, Takahashi H, Fujimori M, Yaguchi-Saito A, Inoue M, Uchitomi Y, Shimazu T. Barriers and facilitative factors in the implementation of workplace health promotion activities in small and medium-sized enterprises: a qualitative study. Implement Sci Commun 2022; 3:23. [PMID: 35236511 PMCID: PMC8889638 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-022-00268-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background There is an immense difference between large companies and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in implementation of evidence-based interventions (EBIs). Previous literature reveals various barriers that SMEs face during implementation, such as a lack of time, accessibility, and resources. However, few studies have comprehensively examined those influential factors at multi-levels. This study aims to identify the factors influencing the implementation of non-communicable disease prevention activities (tobacco, alcohol, diet, physical activity, and health check-up) in SMEs using Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Methods We conducted 15 semi-structured interviews with health managers and/or employers in 15 enterprises with less than 300 employees, and four focus groups among public health nurses/nutritionists of health insurers who support SMEs in four prefectures across Japan. A qualitative content analysis by a deductive directed approach was performed. After coding the interview transcript text into the CFIR framework constructs by two independent researchers, the coding results were compared and revised in each enterprise until an agreement was reached. Results Of the 39 CFIR constructs, 25 were facilitative and 7 were inhibitory for workplace health promotion implementation in SMEs, which were across individual, internal, and external levels. In particular, the leadership engagement of employers in implementing the workplace health promotion activities was identified as a fundamental factor which may influence other facilitators, including “access to knowledge and information,” “relative priority,” “learning climate,” at organizational level, and “self-efficacy” at the health manager level. The main barrier was the beliefs held by the employer/manager that “health management is one’s own responsibility.” Conclusions Multi-level factors influencing the implementation of non-communicable diseases prevention activities in SMEs were identified. In resource-poor settings, strong endorsement and support, and positive feedback from employers would be important for health managers and employees to be highly motivated and promote or participate in health promotion. Future studies are needed to develop context-specific strategies based on identified barriers and facilitative factors, and empirically evaluate them, which would contribute to narrowing the differences in worksite health promotion implementation by company size. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43058-022-00268-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junko Saito
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Miyuki Odawara
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Takahashi
- Division of Screening Assessment and Management, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Maiko Fujimori
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan.,Division of Supportive Care, Survivorship and Translational Research, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Akiko Yaguchi-Saito
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Manami Inoue
- Division of Prevention, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
| | - Yosuke Uchitomi
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan.,Division of Supportive Care, Survivorship and Translational Research, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan.,Innovation Center for Supportive, Palliative and Psychosocial Care, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taichi Shimazu
- Division of Behavioral Sciences, National Cancer Center Institute for Cancer Control, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan.
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Hadgraft N, Winkler E, Goode AD, Gunning L, Dunstan DW, Owen N, Sugiyama T, Healy GN. How supportive are workplace environments for sitting less and moving more? A descriptive study of Australian workplaces participating in the BeUpstanding program. Prev Med Rep 2022; 24:101616. [PMID: 34976672 PMCID: PMC8684026 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Workplaces varied in the number of activity-supportive characteristics present. Spatial characteristics were more common than resource or policy characteristics. Characteristics absent in most workplaces were likely to be modifiable or low cost (“easy wins”). Almost all workplaces had some room for improvement in terms of activity-supportive factors.
Desk-based workers are highly sedentary; this has been identified as an emerging work health and safety issue. To reduce workplace sitting time and promote physical activity it is important to understand what factors are already present within workplaces to inform future interventions. This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of supportive environmental factors, prior to workplaces taking part in a ‘sit less, move more’ initiative (BeUpstanding). Participants were 291 Australian-based workplace champions (representing 230 organisations) who unlocked the BeUpstanding program’s online toolkit between September 2017 and mid-November 2020, and who completed surveys relating to champion characteristics, organisation and workplace characteristics, and the availability of environmental factors to support sitting less and moving more. Factors were characterized using descriptive statistics and compared across key sectors and factor categories (spatial; resources/initiatives; policy/cultural) using mixed logistic regression models. Of the 42 factors measured, only 11 were present in > 50% of workplaces. Spatial design factors were more likely to be present than resources/initiatives or policy/cultural factors. Centralised printers were the most commonly reported attribute (94%), while prompts to encourage stair use were the least common (4%). Most workplace factors with < 50% prevalence were modifiable and/or were considered modifiable with low cost. Organisations that were public sector, not small/medium, not regional/remote, and not blue-collar had higher odds of having supportive factors than their counterparts; however, workplaces varied considerably in the number of factors present. These findings can assist with developing and targeting initiatives and promoting feasible strategies for desk-based workers to sit less and move more.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyssa Hadgraft
- Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia.,Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elisabeth Winkler
- The University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ana D Goode
- The University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - David W Dunstan
- Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Neville Owen
- Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia.,Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Takemi Sugiyama
- Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia.,Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Genevieve N Healy
- The University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Brisbane, Australia.,Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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28
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Zerguine H, Goode AD, Abbott A, Johnston V, Healy GN. Factors impacting workplace investment in sit-stand workstations from the perspective of purchasing decision-makers. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2022; 98:103558. [PMID: 34411850 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2021.103558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This explanatory sequential mixed-method study explored the factors associated with the investment (or not) in sit-stand workstations (SSWs) and alternative initiatives to reduce prolonged sitting at work from the perspective of furniture purchasing decision-makers in Australian workplaces. Participants (n = 270) from >200 organisations across 19 industry sectors completed an online survey. Seven interviews were conducted in a sub-sample of participants from organisations without SSWs. The majority (80%) of workplaces reported having invested in SSWs. Workplaces without SSWs, opposed to those with SSWs, were more likely to be private (79.6% vs. 43.5%), of small/medium size (70.4% vs. 35.6%) and without a wellness program (57.4% vs. 22.2%) (all p < 0.05). Financial implications were the main reason for not investing in SSWs. Exercise and stretch breaks were alternative initiatives to reducing sedentary behaviour at work. Better evidence on the return on investment is needed to support purchasing decisions on SSWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haroun Zerguine
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Ana D Goode
- The University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Alison Abbott
- Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, Office of Industrial Relations, Queensland Government, Australia
| | - Venerina Johnston
- The University of Queensland, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Genevieve N Healy
- The University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Herston, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia; School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
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Hwang WJ, Jo HH. Impact of Mental Health on Wellness in Adult Workers. Front Public Health 2021; 9:743344. [PMID: 34976913 PMCID: PMC8716594 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.743344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Wellness in adult workers is intimately associated with better quality of life in individuals, as well as in the family, community, workplace, and country. This study aimed to examine the status of wellness in adult workers and to identify the factors that influence wellness. A descriptive survey was conducted with 260 adult workers. T- test and one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Scheffe test were used to analyze the data. Multiple regression analysis was performed on stress, depression, anxiety, well-being, self-efficacy, and perceived health status. The regression model for wellness in adult workers was significant (F = 42.21, p < 0.001), with an explanatory power of 0.558. Depression (β = −0.306) was identified as the most influential factor for wellness in adult workers, followed by self-efficacy (β = 0.280) and well-being (β = 0.264). Depression, stress, and anxiety negatively influenced wellness, whereas self-efficacy, well-being, and perceived health status positively influenced wellness. Study findings suggest the need to develop intervention programs for workers that decrease stress, depression, and anxiety, and incorporate self-efficacy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won Ju Hwang
- College of Nursing Science, East-West Nursing Research Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
- Won Ju Hwang
| | - Hyun Hee Jo
- Department of Nursing, Hyejeon College, Hongseong, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Hyun Hee Jo
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30
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Unsal N, Weaver G, Bray J, Bibeau D. A Scoping Review of Economic Evaluations of Workplace Wellness Programs. Public Health Rep 2021; 136:671-684. [PMID: 33541206 PMCID: PMC8579389 DOI: 10.1177/0033354920976557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Debates about the effectiveness of workplace wellness programs (WWPs) call for a review of the evidence for return on investment (ROI) of WWPs. We examined literature on the heterogeneity in methods used in the ROI of WWPs to show how this heterogeneity may affect conclusions and inferences about ROI. METHODS We conducted a scoping review using systematic review methods and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We reviewed PubMed, EconLit, Proquest Central, and Scopus databases for published articles. We included articles that (1) were published before December 20, 2019, when our last search was conducted, and (2) met our inclusion criteria that were based on target population, target intervention, evaluation method, and ROI as the main outcome. RESULTS We identified 47 peer-reviewed articles from the selected databases that met our inclusion criteria. We explored the effect of study characteristics on ROI estimates. Thirty-one articles had ROI measures. Studies with costs of presenteeism had the lowest ROI estimates compared with other cost combinations associated with health care and absenteeism. Studies with components of disease management produced higher ROI than programs with components of wellness. We found a positive relationship between ROI and program length and a negative relationship between ROI and conflict of interest. Evaluations in small companies (≤500 employees) were associated with lower ROI estimates than evaluations in large companies (>500 employees). Studies with lower reporting quality scores, including studies that were missing information on statistical inference, had lower ROI estimates. Higher methodologic quality was associated with lower ROI estimates. CONCLUSION This review provides recommendations that can improve the methodologic quality of studies to validate the ROI and public health effects of WWPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilay Unsal
- Department of Economics, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - GracieLee Weaver
- Office of Research & Engagement, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Jeremy Bray
- Department of Economics, Bryan School of Business and Economics, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Daniel Bibeau
- Department of Public Health Education, School of Health and Human Sciences, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
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Siegel A, Hoge AC, Ehmann AT, Martus P, Rieger MA. Attitudes of Company Executives toward a Comprehensive Workplace Health Management-Results of an Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study in Germany. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111475. [PMID: 34769990 PMCID: PMC8583484 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Workplace health management (WHM) in Germany aims at maintaining and increasing the health and well-being of employees. Little is known about company executives’ attitudes toward WHM. To gain more insight, we conducted a large-scale survey in companies in the German county of Reutlingen in 2017. We sent a standardized questionnaire to 906 companies, containing inter alia 26 self-constructed declarative statements depicting company executives’ opinions on various WHM aspects; 222 questionnaires could be evaluated. By exploratory factor analysis we assigned the 26 items to six factors reflecting different attitudes toward WHM. Factor values were standardized to a scale from 0 to 10. The attitude ‘positive view of general health services in the company’, for example, achieved by far the lowest mean agreement (3.3 points). For the attitude ‘general skepticism toward WHM’, agreement and disagreement were balanced (5.0 points). Using multiple regression analyses, we searched for variables that could partially explain respondents’ agreement with attitudes. In conclusion, a general WHM skepticism was widespread, but not dominant. The idea that general health services should be offered in companies was predominantly rejected. Older respondents and respondents from smaller companies and craft enterprises were more skeptical than average about WHM and its possible extensions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achim Siegel
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstr. 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany; (A.C.H.); (A.T.E.); (M.A.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-7071-29-86812
| | - Aileen C. Hoge
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstr. 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany; (A.C.H.); (A.T.E.); (M.A.R.)
| | - Anna T. Ehmann
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstr. 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany; (A.C.H.); (A.T.E.); (M.A.R.)
| | - Peter Martus
- Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and Applied Biometry, University Hospital Tübingen, Silcherstr. 5, 72076 Tübingen, Germany;
| | - Monika A. Rieger
- Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research, University Hospital Tübingen, Wilhelmstr. 27, 72074 Tübingen, Germany; (A.C.H.); (A.T.E.); (M.A.R.)
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Brown CE, Dexter L, Schwatka NV, Dally M, Tenney L, Shore E, Newman LS. Total Worker Health ® and Small Business Employee Perceptions of Health Climate, Safety Climate, and Well-Being during COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9702. [PMID: 34574628 PMCID: PMC8469982 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic created workplace challenges for employee safety and health, especially in small enterprises. We used linear mixed-effects regression to examine changes in health climate, safety climate, and worker well-being, prior to the pandemic and at two timepoints during it. We also examined whether employees at organizations that had received a TWH leadership development intervention prior to COVID-19 would better maintain pre-pandemic perceptions of climates and well-being. The final study cohort consisted of 261 employees from 31 organizations. No differences were observed in mean outcome scores between the leadership intervention groups at any of the survey timepoints. We combined intervention groups to examine the difference across timepoints. Perceptions of health and safety climates remained stable across all timepoints. However, employee well-being scores declined between the pre-pandemic period and subsequent COVID-19 timepoints. These findings suggest that while small organizations continued to be viewed as supporting employees' health and safety over the course of the pandemic, well-being scores declined, indicating that other factors contributed to decreased well-being. The findings from this study have implications for small business leaders as they navigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health, safety, and well-being on their organizations and employees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol E. Brown
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (L.D.); (N.V.S.); (M.D.); (L.T.); (L.S.N.)
| | - Lynn Dexter
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (L.D.); (N.V.S.); (M.D.); (L.T.); (L.S.N.)
| | - Natalie V. Schwatka
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (L.D.); (N.V.S.); (M.D.); (L.T.); (L.S.N.)
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Miranda Dally
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (L.D.); (N.V.S.); (M.D.); (L.T.); (L.S.N.)
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Liliana Tenney
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (L.D.); (N.V.S.); (M.D.); (L.T.); (L.S.N.)
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Erin Shore
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, 135 Dauer Drive, 2101 McGavran-Greenberg Hall, CB #7435, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7435, USA;
| | - Lee S. Newman
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (L.D.); (N.V.S.); (M.D.); (L.T.); (L.S.N.)
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Calitz C, Pratt C, Pronk NP, Fulton JE, Jinnett K, Thorndike AN, Addou E, Arena R, Brown AGM, Chang C, Latts L, Lerner D, Majors M, Mancuso M, Mills D, Sanchez E, Goff D. Cardiovascular Health Research in the Workplace: A Workshop Report. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e019016. [PMID: 34459251 PMCID: PMC8649235 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.019016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Heart disease and stroke are the first and fifth leading causes of death in the United States, respectively. Employers have a unique opportunity to promote cardiovascular health, because >60% of US adults are employed, and most spend half of their waking hours at work. Despite the scope of the opportunity, <1 in 5 businesses implement evidence-based, comprehensive workplace health programs, policies, and practices. Integrated, systems-based workplace health approaches that harness data science and technology may have the potential to reach more employees and be cost-effective for employers. To evaluate the role of the workplace in promoting cardiovascular health across the lifespan, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and the American Heart Association convened a workshop on March 7, 2019, to share best practices, and to discuss current evidence and knowledge gaps, practical application, and dissemination of the evidence, and the need for innovation in workplace health research and practice. This report presents the broad themes discussed at the workshop and considerations for promoting worker cardiovascular health, including opportunities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kimberly Jinnett
- University of California San Francisco and GenentechSan FranciscoCA
| | | | - Ebyan Addou
- National Heart Lung and Blood InstituteBethesdaMD
| | - Ross Arena
- University of Illinois at ChicagoIL
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection NetworkChicagoIL
| | | | - Chia‐Chia Chang
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Centers for Disease Control and PreventionWashingtonDC
| | - Lisa Latts
- Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and FinancingDenverCO
| | | | | | | | | | | | - David Goff
- National Heart Lung and Blood InstituteBethesdaMD
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Lucini D, Pagani E, Capria F, Galliano M, Marchese M, Cribellati S. Evidence of Better Psychological Profile in Working Population Meeting Current Physical Activity Recommendations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18178991. [PMID: 34501580 PMCID: PMC8430491 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18178991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Workplace Health Promotion (WHP) may improve health, productivity and safety and reduce absenteeism. However, although desirable, it is difficult to design tailored (and thus effective) WHP programs, particularly in small-medium companies, which rarely have access to sufficient economic and organizational resources. In this study, 1305 employees filled out an online anonymous lifestyle questionnaire hosted on the website of a non-profit organization, which aims to promote a healthy lifestyle among workers. The data show gender differences regarding stress perception and, in the working population meeting current physical activity recommendations (threshold = 600 MET·min/week), they point out the evidence of a better psychological and nutrition profile, a perception of better job performance, and improved sleep and health quality. Moreover, a unitary index (ranging from 0-100 (with higher scores being healthier)), combining self-reported metrics for diet, exercise and stress, was significantly higher in active employees (67.51 ± 12.46 vs. 39.84 ± 18.34, p < 0.001). The possibility of assessing individual lifestyle in an easy, timely and cost-effective manner, offers the opportunity to collect grouped data useful to drive tailored WHP policies and to have metric to quantify results of interventions. This potentiality may help in creating effective programs and in improving employees' and companies' motivation and attitude towards a feasible WHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Lucini
- BIOMETRA Department, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy
- Exercise Medicine Unit, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, 20135 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +39-02-619-112-808
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Tenney L, Dexter L, Shapiro DC, Dally M, Brown CE, Schwatka NV, Huebschmann AG, McMillen J, Newman LS. Impact of Advising on Total Worker Health Implementation. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:657-664. [PMID: 33950039 PMCID: PMC8729231 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Little is understood about the mechanisms for improving the adoption and implementation of Total Worker Health® (TWH) in workplace settings. The primary objective of this study was to identify whether the delivery of TWH advising is associated with subsequent changes in TWH in small-to-medium sized businesses. METHODS We conducted a longitudinal study of a TWH intervention in 200 organizations completing Health Links Healthy Workplace Assessments™ between October 2016 and December 2019. Organizations were offered consultation via telephonic and live web-based advising sessions. RESULTS Organizations exhibited non-significant albeit positive change in assessment scores from baseline to assessment 2. Businesses receiving advising showed significant score improvements from assessment 2 to 3, versus those without advising. CONCLUSIONS TWH consultation may enhance adoption of organizational behaviors that promote worker health, safety, and well-being over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Tenney
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., W-3111, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Lynn Dexter
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., W-3111, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - David C. Shapiro
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., W-3111, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Miranda Dally
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., W-3111, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Carol E. Brown
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., W-3111, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Natalie V. Schwatka
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., W-3111, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Amy G. Huebschmann
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Adult & Child Consortium for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science (ACCORDS) Dissemination and Implementation program, Division of General Internal Medicine and Center for Women’s Health Research, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 E. 17th Ave., Mailstop B180, Aurora, CO 80045
| | | | - Lee S. Newman
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., W-3111, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, and Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Place, Mailstop B119, Aurora, CO, 80045
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Hogg B, Medina JC, Gardoki-Souto I, Serbanescu I, Moreno-Alcázar A, Cerga-Pashoja A, Coppens E, Tóth MD, Fanaj N, Greiner BA, Holland C, Kõlves K, Maxwell M, Qirjako G, de Winter L, Hegerl U, Pérez-Sola V, Arensman E, Amann BL. Workplace interventions to reduce depression and anxiety in small and medium-sized enterprises: A systematic review. J Affect Disord 2021; 290:378-386. [PMID: 34082284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.04.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety are the most prevalent mental health difficulties in the workplace, costing the global economy $1 trillion each year. Evidence indicates that symptoms may be reduced by interventions in the workplace. This paper is the first to systematically review psychosocial interventions for depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation and behaviours in small-to medium-size enterprises (SMEs). METHODS A systematic search following PRISMA guidelines, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020156275), was conducted for psychosocial interventions targeting depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation/behaviour in SMEs. The PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and two specific occupational health databases were searched, as well as four databases for grey literature, without time limit until 2nd December 2019. RESULTS In total, 1283 records were identified, 70 were retained for full-text screening, and seven met the inclusion criteria: three randomised controlled trials (RCTs), three before and after designs and one non-randomised trial, comprising 5111 participants. Study quality was low to moderate according to the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Five studies showed a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms using techniques based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), two reported no significant change. LIMITATIONS Low number and high heterogeneity of interventions and outcomes, high attrition and lack of rigorous RCTs. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary evidence indicates CBT-based interventions can be effective in targeting symptoms of depression and anxiety in SME employees. There may be unique challenges to implementing programmes in SMEs. Further research is needed in this important area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Hogg
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain; IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain; PhD Programme, Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Carles Medina
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Itxaso Gardoki-Souto
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain; IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain; PhD Programme, Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ilinca Serbanescu
- European Alliance Against Depression e.V., Leipzig, Germany; Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ana Moreno-Alcázar
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain; IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain; CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain; Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arlinda Cerga-Pashoja
- Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England; Global Public Health, Public Health England, United Kingdom
| | - Evelien Coppens
- LUCAS, Centre for Care Research and Consultancy, University of Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mónika Ditta Tóth
- Institute of Behavioral Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Birgit A Greiner
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health, National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Ireland
| | - Carolyn Holland
- National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland; Health Service Executive, Cork, Ireland
| | - Kairi Kõlves
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, Griffith University
| | - Margaret Maxwell
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, University of Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Gentiana Qirjako
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania
| | - Lars de Winter
- Phrenos Center of Expertise for severe mental illness, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Hegerl
- European Alliance Against Depression e.V., Leipzig, Germany; Research Centre of the German Depression Foundation, Leipzig, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Victor Pérez-Sola
- IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain; CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain; Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions (INAD), Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ella Arensman
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health, National Suicide Research Foundation, University College Cork, Ireland; National Suicide Research Foundation, Cork, Ireland; Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, Griffith University; International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), Washington DC, USA.
| | - Benedikt L Amann
- Centre Fòrum Research Unit, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain; IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain; CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain; Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions (INAD), Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
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Koide K, Okamoto R, Makabe M, Tanaka M, Nakase K. A Feasibility Evaluation of an Employee-led Brief Health Promotion Program to Promote Lifestyle Change in the Workplace. J Prim Care Community Health 2021; 12:2150132721993649. [PMID: 33559515 PMCID: PMC7876744 DOI: 10.1177/2150132721993649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In Japan, lifestyle-related diseases are a major issue. It is necessary to
support employees in making lifestyle changes. As a result, this study
intended to test and evaluate the feasibility of a brief lifestyle change
program led by employees in the workplace. Methods: A 2-group before-and-after test design was used, with employees from a plant
in Japan as participants. Intervention was carried out by healthcare
specialists for the Standard Intervention Group, while employees who
previously received the same intervention performed it for the Employee-run
Group. Data were collected twice with a questionnaire, provided in the first
and last program sessions. The conditions of the participants during the
intervention were compared. Results: Of all the participants, 96 were in the Standard Intervention Group and 365
were in the Employee-run Group. The mean age did not differ significantly
between the 2 groups. There was a significantly higher ratio of men and
night shift workers in the Employee-run Group. Although a significantly
smaller proportion of participants set shared behavioral goals for 3 people
or self-monitored their lifestyle habits in the Employee-run Group, the
lifestyle habits of self-checking, physical measurement, and other items for
set goals did not differ. Conclusions: Participants in the Employee-run group completed components of the program to
the same extent as those in the Standard Intervention Group, suggesting that
this program is feasible. However, as the participation rate was lower in
some components, improvements to the program and workbook are needed to make
those components easier to complete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Koide
- Shitennoji University, Habikino-city, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Mika Makabe
- Shitennoji University, Habikino-city, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Katsumi Nakase
- Kibi International University, Takahashi-city, Okayama, Japan
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Schwatka NV, Dally M, Shore E, Dexter L, Tenney L, Brown CE, Newman LS. Profiles of total worker health® in United States small businesses. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1010. [PMID: 34051787 PMCID: PMC8164062 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11045-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Total Worker Health® (TWH) approach is a best practice method to protect and promote worker safety, health, and well-being. Central to this approach is leadership support and health and safety climates that support day-to-day use of health and safety policies and programs. There is some research that supports these relationships, but there is limited research amongst small businesses. Furthermore, it remains to be shown what role TWH business strategies, as reflected by organizational policies and programs, play in this process. The purpose of this study is to characterize small businesses by their organizations' TWH approach and assess the relationship of these approaches to employee health and safety behaviors. METHODS We utilized cross-sectional data from 97 businesses participating in the Small+Safe+Well study. We collected data using a business assessment tool, Healthy Workplace Assessment™, and an employee assessment tool, Employee Health and Safety Culture Survey. We used latent profile analysis at the business level to identify subgroups of businesses based on a set of characteristics from these assessments. Linear regression analysis at the employee level was used to determine profile association with employee safety and health behaviors. RESULTS There were two profiles characterized by the lowest (33% of all businesses) and highest (9%) levels of the indicators. There were also two profiles with higher scores on two of the different foci on either TWH business strategies (27%) or leadership and climate (31%). Employees working for a business with a profile that focused on leadership and climate, in addition to having a business strategy, reported the best safety and health behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that employee engagement in TWH will be highest when businesses have a strategy for how they implement a TWH approach and when they demonstrate leadership commitment to these strategies and foster positive safety and health climates. Our results offer suggestions on how to use TWH assessments to develop interventions for small businesses. More research is needed to understand whether small businesses can improve upon their profile overtime, whether these changes depend on contextual factors, and whether TWH interventions can help them improve their profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie V Schwatka
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Miranda Dally
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Erin Shore
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Lynn Dexter
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Liliana Tenney
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Carol E Brown
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Lee S Newman
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17th Pl., 3rd Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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Biswas A, Begum M, Van Eerd D, Smith PM, Gignac MAM. Organizational Perspectives on How to Successfully Integrate Health Promotion Activities into Occupational Health and Safety. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:270-284. [PMID: 33769396 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is increasing recognition of the value of integrating efforts to promote worker health with existing occupational health and safety activities. This paper aimed to identify facilitators, barriers and recommendations for implementing integrated worker health approaches. METHODS Thirteen stakeholders from different job sectors participated in a workshop that targeted key issues underlying integrated worker health approaches in their own and other organizations. Included were participants from human resources, occupational health and safety, government, and unions. Thematic analysis and an online ranking exercise identified recommendation priorities and contributed to a conceptual framework. RESULTS Participants highlighted the importance of planning phases in addition to implementation and evaluation. Themes highlighted organizational priorities, leadership buy-in, external pressures, training, program promotion and evaluation metrics. CONCLUSIONS Findings provide practical directions for integrating worker health promotion and safety and implementation steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviroop Biswas
- Institute for Work & Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Dr Biswas, Begum, Van Eerd, Smith, Gignac); Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Biswas, Smith, Gignac); Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (Smith)
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Schwatka NV, Brown CE, Tenney L, Scott JG, Shore E, Dally M, Newman LS. Evaluation of a Total Worker Health ® leadership program for small business leaders. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SCIENCE 2021; 5:163-188. [PMID: 37366387 PMCID: PMC10291283 DOI: 10.1007/s41542-021-00086-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Leaders play a critical role in the development and execution of Total Worker Health (TWH). Small businesses, in particular, can benefit from strong leadership support for TWH as the burden of work-related injury, illness and fatality, as well as poor health and well-being is high in this population. In the present study, we conducted a program evaluation of a TWH leadership development program for small business leaders using the RE-AIM framework. The goal of the program was to help change leaders' behaviors around health, safety and well-being practices following the theory of transformational leadership. Two leaders from each business participated in pre-training activities on their own, a 6-hour in-person training, and three months of access to virtual training transfer activities, including coaching and goal tracking. Our results suggest that the TWH leadership development program is effective at improving leaders' self-reported TWH leadership practices and that the in-person training was implemented successfully. However, leaders did not report improvements in their personal health and in fact reported increased levels of work stress after the program. We also observed some challenges when implementing our training transfer strategies. Our study suggests that leaders may benefit from attending TWH leadership trainings alongside other colleagues in their organization to facilitate a shared vision and goals for TWH in their organization. As a next step, it will be important to determine the program's effectiveness in changing business TWH policies and practices, employee perceptions of TWH and leadership, and employee health and safety outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie V. Schwatka
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Carol E. Brown
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Liliana Tenney
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Joshua G. Scott
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Erin Shore
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Miranda Dally
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Lee S. Newman
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health and Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 13001 E. 17 Pl., 3 Floor, Mail Stop B119 HSC, Aurora, CO 80045
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Brown CE, Schwatka N, Dexter L, Dally M, Shore E, Tenney L, Newman LS. The Importance of Small Business Safety and Health Climates During COVID-19. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:81-88. [PMID: 33177474 PMCID: PMC7864611 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines employee perceptions of safety and health climates for well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic in a sample of small businesses. METHODS We evaluated changes to employees' work and home life resulting from COVID-19 and perceptions of safety and health climates. Cross-sectional relationships were assessed using multivariable linear regression models for a sample of 491 employees from 30 small businesses in Colorado in May 2020. RESULTS Employee perceptions of safety and health climates were significantly related to their self-reported well-being during the first wave of COVID-19, even when there were changes to childcare, the ability to work, and limited social contacts. CONCLUSION Safety and health climates may influence employee well-being even when other disruptions occur, suggesting that during emergencies, small businesses with strong climates may be better prepared to maintain employee well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol E Brown
- Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado (Dr Brown, Dr Schwatka, Ms Dexter, Ms Dally, Ms Shore, Dr Tenney, Dr Newman); Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado (Dr Schwatka, Dally, Tenney, Newman); Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Shore); Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health and Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado (Dr Newman), Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado (Dr Newman)
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Lee J, Lee S, Lee M, Kang YJ. Occupational health nurses' personal attitudes toward smoking: A cross-sectional study. J Occup Health 2021; 63:e12221. [PMID: 33938100 PMCID: PMC8090975 DOI: 10.1002/1348-9585.12221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to investigate if experience in smoking intervention training influences attitudes toward smoking, discuss the role of health management programs of small- and medium-sized enterprises, and analyze the current attitude of occupational health nurses regarding the hazards of smoking and responsibility to smokers to effectively facilitate smoking cessation support programs. METHODS We conducted an anonymous self-administered cross-sectional survey of 108 nurses employed in occupational health services outsourcing specialized agency in Korea. We assessed the difference in attitude about smoking according to training experience in smoking interventions and perceived competence in counseling smokers using chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS Occupational health nurses with the training experience of smoking interventions tend to perceive the harmful effects of smoking more seriously, compared to occupational health nurses without the training experience (P = .024, Fisher's exact test) and the OHSO nurses with the training experience tend to have professional ethics as health care professionals (P = .017, Fisher's exact test). Occupational health nurses having expertise in smoking cessation counseling tended to have professional ethics (P = .047, Fisher's exact test) and social responsibility as health care professionals (P = .022, Fisher's exact test). CONCLUSION The occupational health nurses with training experience and expertise in smoking cessation counseling perceive the harmful effects of smoking more strongly and can enhance their professional ethics and social responsibility as health care professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihye Lee
- Occupational Safety and Health Research InstituteKorea Occupational Safety and Health AgencyUlsanRepublic of Korea
| | - Saerom Lee
- Korean Industrial Health AssociationDaejeonRepublic of Korea
| | - Minkyu Lee
- Myoung ClinicYeongdong‐gunRepublic of Korea
| | - Young Joong Kang
- COMWEL Incheon HospitalKorea Workers' Compensation & Welfare ServiceIncheonRepublic of Korea
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Health Links™ Assessment of Total Worker Health® Practices as Indicators of Organizational Behavior in Small Business. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 61:623-634. [PMID: 31045750 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to conduct a cross-sectional assessment of the adoption of Total Worker Health (TWH) policies and practices by business size and evaluate extent and alignment of their safety and health. METHODS We conducted an analysis of 382 businesses that completed the Health Links Assessment. We measured organizational adoption of TWH across six benchmarks: organizational supports, workplace assessments, health policies and programs, safety, engagement, and evaluation. RESULTS Benchmark scores were significantly associated with business size. Larger businesses were more likely to score higher across each benchmark. CONCLUSION Small businesses are implementing TWH in a variety of ways and the level of implementation differs by business size. Practical interventions as well as dissemination and implementation research should take business size into account to ensure that TWH is both effective and sustainable in meeting the needs of employees.
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Hoffmann C, Stassen G, Schaller A. Theory-Based, Participatory Development of a Cross-Company Network Promoting Physical Activity in Germany: A Mixed-Methods Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8952. [PMID: 33271973 PMCID: PMC7729513 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The untapped potential of workplace health promotion (WHP) in smaller companies and the promising approach to promote physical activity in the workplace requires application-oriented approaches. This study describes the participatory, theory-based development of a cross-company network with a multicomponent intervention for promoting physical activity in smaller companies. The BIG-Manual (from the "Movement as an Investment for Health" project, German-BIG) was the theoretical framework for developing the cross-company network. Qualitative and quantitative data sources were used to identify the requests and requirements of stakeholders (employees on site, local exercise providers, company representatives and network partners) regarding measures promoting physical activity and the cross-company network. The methods applied included two workshops (n = 13; n = 15), individual semi-structured interviews (n = 8) and a survey (n = 285). The analysis revealed that a large number of stakeholders must be taken into consideration for physical activity promotion in cross-company networks. Many similarities between the requests of employees and further stakeholders concerning a multicomponent intervention for promoting physical activity could be identified. Present gender-specific and physical activity-related differences show the importance of target group-specific intervention planning in the context of WHP. This study makes an important contribution for the development of future cross-company networks promoting physical activity and yields valuable information for the design of a multicomponent intervention promoting physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Hoffmann
- Working Group Physical Activity-Related Prevention Research, Institute of Movement Therapy and Movement-Oriented Prevention and Rehabilitation, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Muengersdorf 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany; (G.S.); (A.S.)
- Institute for Occupational Health Promotion, Neumarkt 35-37, 50667 Cologne, Germany
| | - Gerrit Stassen
- Working Group Physical Activity-Related Prevention Research, Institute of Movement Therapy and Movement-Oriented Prevention and Rehabilitation, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Muengersdorf 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany; (G.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrea Schaller
- Working Group Physical Activity-Related Prevention Research, Institute of Movement Therapy and Movement-Oriented Prevention and Rehabilitation, German Sport University Cologne, Am Sportpark Muengersdorf 6, 50933 Cologne, Germany; (G.S.); (A.S.)
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Senthanar S, Varatharajan S, Bigelow P. Flexible Work Arrangements and Health in White-Collar Urban Professionals. New Solut 2020; 30:294-304. [PMID: 33256504 DOI: 10.1177/1048291120976642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Although some research has examined health implications of flexible work arrangements, little is known about job flexibility and health in the context of modern working life, characterized by intensification. Grounded on the Job Demand-Resource model, this article explores access to flexible work arrangements and organizational climate on the health and well-being of white-collar, urban professionals in downtown Toronto. A qualitative content analysis of eight semistructured interviews with white-collar, urban professionals between the ages of twenty-five and thirty-two revealed three domains-intensity of work life and demands, coworker and managerial relations, and the boundaries between work and home-where demands outweighed resources to limit workers' ability to practice flexibility. Thus, an emerging trend where workers need to be flexible within flexible work arrangements emerged. Findings point to the need for organizational commitment and activities to address unhealthy behaviors in the context of modern working life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Senthanar
- School of Population and Public Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sharanya Varatharajan
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Philip Bigelow
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
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46
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De Angelis M, Giusino D, Nielsen K, Aboagye E, Christensen M, Innstrand ST, Mazzetti G, van den Heuvel M, Sijbom RB, Pelzer V, Chiesa R, Pietrantoni L. H-WORK Project: Multilevel Interventions to Promote Mental Health in SMEs and Public Workplaces. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8035. [PMID: 33142745 PMCID: PMC7662282 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The paper describes the study design, research questions and methods of a large, international intervention project aimed at improving employee mental health and well-being in SMEs and public organisations. The study is innovative in multiple ways. First, it goes beyond the current debate on whether individual- or organisational-level interventions are most effective in improving employee health and well-being and tests the cumulative effects of multilevel interventions, that is, interventions addressing individual, group, leader and organisational levels. Second, it tailors its interventions to address the aftermaths of the Covid-19 pandemic and develop suitable multilevel interventions for dealing with new ways of working. Third, it uses realist evaluation to explore and identify the working ingredients of and the conditions required for each level of intervention, and their outcomes. Finally, an economic evaluation will assess both the cost-effectiveness analysis and the affordability of the interventions from the employer perspective. The study integrates the training transfer and the organisational process evaluation literature to develop toolkits helping end-users to promote mental health and well-being in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco De Angelis
- Department of Psychology, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (D.G.); (R.C.); (L.P.)
| | - Davide Giusino
- Department of Psychology, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (D.G.); (R.C.); (L.P.)
| | - Karina Nielsen
- Institute of Work Psychology, Sheffield University Management School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 FL, UK;
| | - Emmanuel Aboagye
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Marit Christensen
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, N-7941 Trondheim, Norway; (M.C.); (S.T.I.)
| | - Siw Tone Innstrand
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, N-7941 Trondheim, Norway; (M.C.); (S.T.I.)
| | - Greta Mazzetti
- Department of Education Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Machteld van den Heuvel
- Department of Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Amsterdam, 1018 WS Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.v.d.H.); (R.B.L.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Roy B.L. Sijbom
- Department of Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Amsterdam, 1018 WS Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.v.d.H.); (R.B.L.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Vince Pelzer
- Department of Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Amsterdam, 1018 WS Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.v.d.H.); (R.B.L.S.); (V.P.)
| | - Rita Chiesa
- Department of Psychology, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (D.G.); (R.C.); (L.P.)
| | - Luca Pietrantoni
- Department of Psychology, Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (D.G.); (R.C.); (L.P.)
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Kernan G, Cifuentes M, Gore R, Kriebel D, Punnett L. A Corporate Wellness Program and Nursing Home Employees' Health. Front Public Health 2020; 8:531116. [PMID: 33194941 PMCID: PMC7664128 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.531116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Many employed Americans suffer from chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Worksite wellness programs provide opportunities to introduce health promotion strategies. While there is evidence of the effectiveness of workplace health promotion, this is tempered by concern that benefits may be less available to low-wage workers with inflexible working conditions. Objective: The aim was to evaluate a workplace health promotion (WHP) in the long-term care sector (skilled nursing facilities). Methods: Nursing home employees from 18 facilities within a single company were surveyed by a standardized, self-administered questionnaire. A company-sponsored WHP program was offered to the facilities, which were free to take it up or not. We categorized the facilities by level of program adoption. Cross-sectional associations were estimated between program category and prevalence of individual-level worker health indicators, adjusting for center-level working conditions. Results: A total of 1,589 workers in 5 job categories completed the survey. Average levels of psychological demands and social support at work were relatively high. Supervisor support stood out as higher in centers with well-developed WHP programs, compared to centers with no programs. There were no differences among program levels for most health outcomes. Workers in centers with well-developed programs had slightly lower average body mass index and (unexpectedly) slightly lower prevalence of non-smoking and regular aerobic exercise. Conclusions: Only small health benefits were observed from well-developed programs and working conditions did not appear to confound the negative results. This low-intensity, low-resourced workplace health promotion program may have benefited a few individuals but seems to have had only modest influence on average levels of the measured health indicators. Many nursing home employees experience obstacles to health behaviors; approaches that provide more environmental and economic supports for healthy behaviors, such as Total Worker Health®, may yield larger health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Kernan
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Manuel Cifuentes
- Department of Public Health, Regis College, Weston, MA, United States
| | - Rebecca Gore
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
| | - David Kriebel
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Laura Punnett
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
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Pham CT, Phung D, Nguyen TV, Chu C. The effectiveness of workplace health promotion in low- and middle-income countries. Health Promot Int 2020; 35:1220-1229. [PMID: 31495871 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daz091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although many literature reviews synthesize literature regarding workplace health promotion (WHP) interventions, systematic reviews on the effectiveness of and factors influencing the operation of WHP activities in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) are scarce. Therefore, we systematically reviewed evaluation studies to examine the effectiveness and factors related to the implementation of WHP programmes in LMIC. Twenty-six peer-reviewed and grey evaluation studies, published before November 2017, were included from electronic databases (PubMed, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, EMBASE and Web of Science) and manual searching. The results revealed that WHP intervention in LMIC was effective in reducing health risks in a wide range of industries and settings, including in resource-poor contexts such as small enterprises and the manufacturing industry. The main factors positively influencing the effectiveness of the intervention are long intervention time period, and needs-based and active intervention strategies. In addition, commitment from workplace leaders, the involvement of workers and support from authorities and professionals are factors contributing to a successful WHP programme. However, the evidence regarding the effectiveness of WHP in LMIC regarding the health outcomes and business productivity is inconclusive due to the several remaining methodological limitations. Future developments of more rigorous methods of evaluating the effectiveness of WHP activities should be addressed to produce higher-quality evidence that would inform future practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Tuan Pham
- Centre for Environment and Population Health, School of Medicine, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Dung Phung
- Centre for Environment and Population Health, School of Medicine, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Thi Vinh Nguyen
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park Road, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Cordia Chu
- Centre for Environment and Population Health, School of Medicine, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
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49
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Unsal N, Weaver G, Bray JW, Bibeau D, Saake G. Return on Investment of Workplace Wellness: Evidence From a Long-Term Care Company. Workplace Health Saf 2020; 69:81-90. [PMID: 32967587 DOI: 10.1177/2165079920953052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Workplace wellness programs (WWPs) are increasingly promoted by businesses and governments as an important strategy to improve workers' overall health and well-being and to reduce health care and other organizational costs. Few studies have evaluated WWPs in small businesses to provide evidence on the potential return-on-investment (ROI) that WWPs might yield. This study aimed to fill this gap by presenting a quasi-experimental, ROI analysis of a WWP in a small company. METHODS This observational quasi-experimental study evaluated economic outcomes of a multicomponent WWP implemented by a small long-term care company. The company provided approximately 2 years of de-identified, individualized data on its employees for 2013-2015. There were 116 WWP participants and 323 nonparticipants. Difference-in-differences models were used to evaluate the program using organizational costs and ROI estimates. FINDINGS The estimated program cost was $132.692 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [$112.957, $156.101]) per participant and the estimated organizational costs savings were $210.342 (95% CI: [-4354.095, 2002.890]). The WWP achieved an ROI of $0.585 (95% CI: [-$35.095, $14.103]) per participant. Although not statistically significant, the results suggest that the WWP saved $1.585 for every $1 invested. CONCLUSIONS/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE These results suggest that the evaluated WWP yielded a positive, although nonsignificant, ROI estimate. While ROI is still one of the most common evaluation metrics used in workplace wellness, few studies present ROI estimates of WWPs in small companies. Given policy efforts to promote WWPs in small businesses, there is a need to conduct high-quality ROI analyses for WWPs in smaller companies.
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Vaughn AE, Willis EA, Ward DS, Smith F, Grummon A, Linnan LA. Workplace-based opportunities to support child care workers' health and safety. Prev Med Rep 2020; 19:101154. [PMID: 32714774 PMCID: PMC7369321 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Child care workers earn among the lowest wages in the United States and they struggle with many health issues. The purpose of this study was to describe workplace supports for nutrition, physical activity, other health behaviors (e.g., smoking cessation, stress management), and occupational health and safety available to child care workers, and thereby inform the development of future workplace-based interventions to improve worker well-being. Between 2015 and 2016, 74 North Carolina child care centers (and directors), participating in a larger randomized controlled trial, completed a Workplace Health and Safety Assessment (interview and observation) measuring four domains: Infrastructure, Organizational Policies and Procedures, Programs and Promotions, and Internal Physical Environment. This study used baseline data to report means and standard deviations. Participating child care centers employed, on average, 12.7 ± 8.4 employees. Total scores from the Workplace Health and Safety Assessment averaged 41.3 ± 12.6 out of a possible 154, demonstrating many missed opportunities for supporting health/safety. More specifically, centers scored on average 9.5 ± 3.9 on Infrastructure (35% of potential points), 11.1 ± 3.9 on Organizational Policies and Procedures (32% of potential), 7.6 ± 5.4 on Programs and Promotions (12% of potential), and 13.1 ± 2.2 on Internal Physical Environment (49% of potential). The most frequent supports available were for occupational health and safety issues, while fewer supports were available for physical activity and other health behaviors. Child care workers could benefit greatly from more comprehensive workplace health and safety interventions; however, strategies must overcome centers' limited capacity and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber E Vaughn
- Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1700 Martin L. King Jr. Blvd., CB 7426, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7426, USA
| | - Erik A Willis
- Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1700 Martin L. King Jr. Blvd., CB 7426, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7426, USA
| | - Dianne S Ward
- Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1700 Martin L. King Jr. Blvd., CB 7426, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7426, USA.,Department of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2202 McGavran-Greenberg Hall, CB7461, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7461, USA
| | - Falon Smith
- Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1700 Martin L. King Jr. Blvd., CB 7426, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7426, USA
| | - Anna Grummon
- Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1700 Martin L. King Jr. Blvd., CB 7426, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7426, USA.,Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 307 Rosenau Hall, CB 7440, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7440, USA
| | - Laura A Linnan
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 307 Rosenau Hall, CB 7440, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7440, USA
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