Cardiovascular fitness and absenteeism in 8,301 employed adults

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of the relationship between cardiovascular fitness and absenteeism in the workplace. A total of 8,301 adult males and females who were employed by corporations which participated in a health screening program were used in the study. Absenteeism due to illness, demographic variables, and smoking status were assessed using a written questionnaire, while body fat was measured using skinfold calipers and cardiovascular fitness was assessed using a step test. Results indicated that high levels of cardiovascular fitness were associated significantly with low levels of absenteeism. The relationship remained strong after adjusting for differences in age, gender, income, cigarette smoking, and percent body fat. The association was stronger in females than males.