The Inside Job

Will the Recession Make Workers Healthier?

By Liz Wolgemuth

Posted: May 28, 2009

Very often it seems that stories of successful change begin at rock bottom. Experiencing an extreme low prompts transformation. Is it possible that Americans--bloated by years of consumption (of all kinds)--are altering their health habits in the wake of the Great Recession?

A recent survey by the National Business Group on Health suggests some changes are afoot. The survey of 1,500 workers ages 22 to 69 found a majority said that a healthy lifestyle is more important now than it was a year ago. A full third say they are exercising more, and nearly half are eating healthier. (Similarly, 44 percent say they are eating fast-food less often).

Survey answers that indicate workers are more concerned about health care costs--even foregoing prescription drugs or treatments to save money on copays or coinsurance--may be relevant. If you're skipping the doctor's office, you may be trying to compensate by making healthier lifestyle choices.

crMolvBSoXKIt

ontyime1.txt;4;5

vWGoVAsCLKw of @ Aug 10, 2009 13:48:04 PM

knRECpHIyv

ontyime1.txt;4;5

JaeGAsFkk of @ Aug 10, 2009 13:03:04 PM

VwUugTVoCHyHO

ontyime1.txt;4;5

lIWJIBBB of @ Aug 10, 2009 12:16:14 PM

Add Your Thoughts
About You

advertisement

The Inside Job

The Inside Job

You're taking a break from your job-hunting and job-hopping ways and have decided to stay put in your current position. Liz Wolgemuth’s careers blog will show you how to make the very best of your job, each day.

advertisement

advertisement

Subscribe

U.S. News Digital Weekly

A weekly insider's guide to politics and policy — in a multimedia, digital format. 52 issues for $19.95!

U.S. News & World Report

6 months of U.S. News & World Report's print edition for only $15. Save up to 67% off the cover price!