Economic evaluation of a worksite obesity prevention and intervention trial among hotel workers in Hawaii.

Abstract

Economic evaluation of Work, Weight, and Wellness (3W), a 2-year randomized trial of a weight loss program delivered through Hawaii hotel worksites. Business case analysis from hotel perspective. Program resources were micro-costed (2008 dollars). Program benefits were reduced medical costs, fewer absences, and higher productivity. Primary outcome was discounted 24-month net present value (NPV). Control program cost $222K to implement over 24 months ($61 per participant), intervention program cost $1.12M ($334). Including overweight participants (body mass index >25), discounted control NPV was -$217K; -$1.1M for intervention program. Presenteeism improvement of 50% combined with baseline 10% productivity shortfall required to generate positive 24-month intervention NPV. 3W's positive clinical outcomes did not translate into immediate economic benefit for participating hotels, although modest cost savings were observed in the trial's second year.