A new study of Japanese workers published in the Journal of Public Health has shown that poor work performance is strongly associated with not getting enough sleep. Insufficient sleep can also have a negative impact on physical health, particularly the heart.
The cross-sectional study used survey data and health insurance claims from nearly 12,500 workers in Japan. A multiple regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between work performance and 11 different lifestyle habits, such as sleep, exercise, diet, alcohol consumption, and smoking. The specific goal of the study was to see how these lifestyle habits were related to presenteeism, or the practice of working while sick and losing productivity because of it. Results were segmented based on gender.
The results showed that insufficient sleep was most strongly related to poor work performance for both men and women. Lack of regular exercise and eating late-night meals were also associated with poor work performance for both genders. For men only, slow walking speed, smoking, and skipping breakfast were linked to poor work performance. For women only, fast eating speed had a negative impact.
The findings suggest that employers may want to implement interventions for their employees that are focused on improving sleep, exercise habits, and meal timing. These factors, particularly sleep and exercise, also have an enormous impact on heart health and overall physical health. Sleep and exercise are considered key components of improving and maintaining heart health according to the American Heart Association. Other important factors in heart health include maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and managing weight, cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar. Improving these factors may have the added bonus of improving work performance.
To further enhance employee health and productivity, companies might consider recommending the use of innovative health technologies, such as a sleep apnea app for Android. This app can help individuals monitor their sleep patterns and recognize signs of sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, which significantly affect sleep quality and, consequently, daily performance and health. Offering support through technology can empower employees to take proactive steps in managing their sleep, leading to better health outcomes and increased work productivity.
Sources: Journal of Public Health, Science Daily
