In today's tough business climate, employers and their employees must do more with less to keep their economic heads above water. One positive step in this direction is a healthier workforce, at work and more productive. But how can employers convince the C-suite of the need to promote health to gain productivity and demonstrate the risks inherent in doing nothing?

Competitive Advantage New research published by the Integrated Benefits Institute (IBI) shows that as unemployment goes up, those still employed are more likely to adopt unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption and lack of exercise. Such lifestyle-related health risks contribute to workplace absence and reduce productivity while on the job.

Fortunately, employers today appear to recognize and value health and productivity management (HPM). Instead of viewing such wellness and prevention programs as costs to be cut, a recent IBI survey of 450 employers shows that 68 percent of those with HPM programs plan to increase such resources in the next two years, and 23 percent are holding firm on their HPM investments.