Worker Health and Wellness

Indianapolis — Some patients who – as part of a study – received non-opioid painkillers for chronic back, hip and knee pain expressed awe at how the drugs compared to opioid-based treatment in terms of effectiveness, according to researchers from the Regenstrief Institute.

Austin, TX — The presence of smartphones can significantly reduce users’ cognitive capacity – even when the devices are turned off – according to researchers from the University of Texas at Austin.

Atlanta — Nearly 4 out of 5 health care providers received an influenza vaccination during the 2017-2018 flu season, according to a recently released annual report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Washington — The National Business Group on Health has partnered with more than 20 employers on an effort to boost employee engagement and improve their experience with employer-provided health benefits and well-being programs.

Toledo, OH — Exposure to blue light from the sun and electronic devices may destroy cells in the retina and accelerate the onset of blindness, a recent study from the University of Toledo indicates.

Ann Arbor, MI — Cutting junk food from your diet may result in withdrawal symptoms similar to those experienced by people kicking a drug habit, new research from the University of Michigan shows.

Menomonee Falls, WI — It’s common knowledge that handwashing helps prevent the spread of germs in the workplace. But are people taking that message to heart? Not everyone, according to the results of a recent survey.

Sacramento, CA — California has become the first state to require professional cosmetics manufacturers to disclose ingredients – including hazardous chemicals – on their product labels.

As mental health in the workplace receives increased attention, what role – if any – should the safety professional play in gauging workers’ mental well-being? Is the question an overdue recognition of a major contributor to worker health and safety, or a distraction from the primary responsibilities of injury prevention?

Boston — Bagels and donuts during the breakfast meeting. Cake for birthday celebrations. Consuming extra food is a common occurrence for many workers. But before you grab that free donut, know this: Workplace snacks may be adding more than 1,000 calories to your daily diet.