Smoking Surveys from the National Business Group on Health
In November 2006 and October 2007, the National Business Group on Health surveyed its employer members about smoking. These surveys were a part of an educational initiative sponsored by Pfizer Inc. The surveys sought to better understand benefit offerings and practices regarding smoking cessation, as well as beliefs and perceptions about smoking and its implications on businesses. The surveys provided intriguing results. Many employers revealed they believed smoking cessation benefits were a high business priority, yet they were not a part of the employee health benefit structure. Despite the fact that many employees believe tobacco cessation benefits should be available, very few ever broach the subject with their employers. The following survey results provide interesting insight into beliefs about smoking cessation versus the actual action steps taken by employers and their employees.
The 2006 survey polled two audiences: employers and employees. 508 benefits decision-influencers and 510 full-time employed smokers (who work for companies that offer health benefits) participated. The survey explored employers' and employees' understanding, beliefs and actions about tobacco use, nicotine addiction, and smoking cessation practices and benefits.
The 2007 survey polled 506 benefits decision-influencers from companies that offer health benefits. The survey explored employers' level of knowledge and concern regarding smoking and its associated health risks, understanding and perceptions of the business impact of smoking, types of cessation programs and resources employers provide, as well as, the barriers to implementing comprehensive smoking cessation benefits as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2006 Smokers in the Workplace Study: A Survey of Employers and Employees
2007 Exploring Employers' Understanding and Perceptions of the Business Impact of Smoking
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