However , the existing evidence does suggest that bariatric surgery has a generally positive impact on occupational outcomes .
This suggests that surgery may have wider economic , social and psychological benefits above and beyond its immediate health benefits
Introduction Obesity has been linked with reduced productivity in the workplace and is associated with higher levels of unemployment and absenteeism .
Studies have shown improvement in functioning and enhanced activity levels in patients after bariatric surgery .
Objectives We perform a systematic review and meta- analysis of the literature to assess the impact of bariatric surgery on occupational outcomes .
Obesity and sickness absence: results from the CHAP study.
BACKGROUND Obesity is an increasing public health problem . A small number of studies have examined the relationship between obesity and sickness absence , with mixed results , particularly regarding short-term sickness absence . AIMS To determine if obesity is associated with short- and long-term sickness absence and to investigate the mechanisms that may underlie any association . METHODS  Cross-sectional ( n = 1489 ) and prospect i ve ( n = 625 ) analyses were conducted on staff from London Underground Ltd. All participants underwent regular clinical examinations that involved their height and weight being measured , obesity-related medical problems being diagnosed and psychiatric disorders being identified . The number of days taken for short- ( < 10 days in an episode ) and  long-term sickness absence  were recorded by managers on an electronic data base . RESULTS There was a positive linear association between employees '  body mass index ( BMI ) and the number of days ' work missed due to sickness absence on both cross-sectional and prospect i ve analyses ( P < 0.001 ) . Obesity was a risk factor for both short- and long-term sickness absence . Obese individuals typically took an extra 4 days sick leave every year . The majority of the increased risk for long-term sickness absence appeared to be mediated via co-morbid chronic medical conditions . The excess short-term sickness absence was not explained by obesity-related medical problems , psychiatric disorders or workplace factors . CONCLUSIONS Obese employees take significantly more short- and long-term sickness absence than workers of a healthy weight . There is growing evidence to support employers becoming more involved in tackling obesity
However , the existing evidence does suggest that bariatric surgery has a generally positive impact on occupational outcomes .
This suggests that surgery may have wider economic , social and psychological benefits above and beyond its immediate health benefits
Introduction Obesity has been linked with reduced productivity in the workplace and is associated with higher levels of unemployment and absenteeism .
Studies have shown improvement in functioning and enhanced activity levels in patients after bariatric surgery .
Objectives We perform a systematic review and meta- analysis of the literature to assess the impact of bariatric surgery on occupational outcomes .