Exploring the Impact of Obesity and Insomnia on Work Productivity: Insights for Occupational Health and Sustainability in the Workplace

Ginevra Malta, Fulvio Plescia and Emanuele Cannizzaro ()
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Ginevra Malta: Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Childcare, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), 90127 Palermo, Italy
Fulvio Plescia: Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Childcare, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), 90127 Palermo, Italy
Emanuele Cannizzaro: Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Childcare, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), 90127 Palermo, Italy

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 2, 1-16

Abstract: Background : The prevalence of obesity and sleep disorders within the Italian workforce mirrors a global trend where sedentary lifestyles, poor eating habits, and elevated stress levels significantly contribute to these health issues. These conditions have profound economic implications, including rising healthcare costs and diminished productivity due to absenteeism and presenteeism, adversely affecting organizational sustainability and employee well-being. Addressing these problems necessitates a holistic approach that integrates individual health interventions, workplace policies, and broader societal changes to promote healthy lifestyles. This cross-sectional study examines the influence of obesity and insomnia, both individually and combined, on work productivity within the context of occupational health and sustainability. Materials and Methods : A cross-sectional analysis was conducted with 397 participants from various professions over a six-month period. Self-reported work productivity impairments were assessed using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire. Body Mass Index (BMI) and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) scores were utilized to evaluate obesity and insomnia levels, respectively. Results : Statistical analyses revealed a significant association of higher BMI and ISI scores with reduced work productivity. Both obesity and insomnia independently and synergistically contributed to productivity losses, with obesity exerting a more substantial effect. These findings indicate that obesity and insomnia increase presenteeism, thereby negatively impacting organizational performance and workplace sustainability. Conclusions : Our study underscores the critical impact of obesity and insomnia on work productivity and highlights the necessity of addressing these health issues not only for individual well-being but also for organizational sustainability. Integrating targeted health management strategies within workplaces to address these conditions can enhance productivity, improve employee well-being, and promote occupational health and safety. These interventions align with the current concept of sustainable work and are essential steps toward achieving sustainability in the workplace.

Keywords: obesity; insomnia; work productivity; presenteeism; workplace sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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