Question
Dear Dr. Newhart,

We are a group of students from Victoria Junior College in Singapore. We are
currently engaged in a project about the office environment and we would
appreciate if you could offer your expert opinion on the following questions.

1. What most common health problems does the typical office environment
bring to its workers and what are the causes of it?
2. Do you think that a lack of exercise is a cause for it, or aggravates it?
3. How do you suggest we can alleviate/eradicate these problems?

We appreciate the time and effort that you have taken to read this message
and in advance, express our gratitude for answering our questions.

Regards and many well-wishes for your association

Lim Yi Lian Teri
Victoria Junior College

Answer
Dear Teri,

This question is difficult because it is very broad based and general. I do believe, however, that all questions deserve an answer. I know that Dr. Newhart did not respond to the question, so with your permission, I will make an attempt.

Question #1:  The most common health problems found in a typical office environment mirror the health problems of our modern society in general. The office is nothing more than a micro community representing society as a whole.  Perhaps what you are truly looking for is an idea of what health hazards are perpetuated by the office environment.  Of these, I can say that heart disease, obesity, and repetitive motion or physical postural diseases are the most common.

#2 Clearly, a lack of exercise and the sedentary circumstances under which work is accomplished leads to diseases of the heart and lungs. Sitting in one place can lead to back problems, and typing on the keyboard is associated with neck, arm, and carpal tunnel symptoms.

#3 Workers in the office should be encouraged to eat healthy foods, and they should be given sufficient time to exercise and move around. The best exercise break would be one that is guided or instructed, otherwise, breaks in work simply turn into smoking, coffee, and gossip sessions, none of which contributes to the health of the employee nor the productivity of the office.  I believe that the office should provide opportunities for healthy snacks and meals through vending machines, with timed and instructed intervals of stretching and strengthening exercises.  It would also be beneficial for employers to bring health care professionals into the office for mini seminars and presentations on health and wellness.

I am so sorry that it took so long for somebody to answer your question. I hope that this gives you some ideas and some help with your class.

Dr. Keith Biggs, DC