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Narrative Review of Workplace Interventions for Obesity

Author: Nabuuma Ruth Nambi
Publisher: IDOSR JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
Published: 2025
Section: School of Pharmacy

Abstract

Obesity is a complex and multifactorial public health challenge that has significant implications for individuals, 
organizations, and national economies. Given that adults spend a substantial portion of their time at work, the 
workplace presents a critical setting for implementing effective obesity prevention and management interventions. 
This narrative review explores the design, measurement, methodologies, outcomes, and ethical considerations of 
workplace-based obesity interventions. Evidence from diverse study designs, including randomized controlled 
trials, quasi-experimental studies, and longitudinal analyses, demonstrates that workplace programs targeting 
physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and organizational culture can positively influence health 
behaviors and modestly reduce obesity prevalence. However, variability in study designs, data collection methods, 
and intervention duration often limits the generalizability and sustainability of results. Ethical issues such as 
privacy, confidentiality, and stigma remain persistent challenges to employee participation and data sharing. The 
review further discusses the importance of integrating obesity prevention into organizational policy, 
institutionalizing programs for long-term sustainability, and aligning workplace initiatives with national public 
health objectives. Overall, effective workplace interventions require a comprehensive, inclusive, and evidence
based approach supported by leadership commitment, robust measurement strategies, and strong ethical 
safeguards to enhance both employee well-being and organizational productivity.