LAUSR

The BMI classification of obesity is a widely used system. However, when it comes to occupational participation restrictions, the BMI-classification is of little value. Modern work environments do not pose high physical demands, allowing people of every BMI group to fulfil common job requirements. Objective The objective was to explore the differences of the three body mass index (BMI) obesity classes regarding sociodemographic data, medical and psychological well-being, but especially participation restrictions at work. Methods A specialist in psychosomatic medicine reported on the health and occupational status of 190 patients (BMI >30), who were treated as inpatients in a psychosomatic rehabilitation unit. Results Significant increases in severity or work limitations were found for higher BMI groups concerning metabolic, cardiologic, and orthopedic comorbidity. There were no differences regarding indicators of occupational participation. Independent of the obesity status, about three quarters were seen as fit for work. Conclusions The initial hypothesis is rejected, as no difference concerning objective parameters of work participation were found between the BMI classes. The data suggest that BMI class I to BMI class III do not allow predictions of the ability to work.