The negative economic effects of unhealthy workplaces have not gone unnoticed by all employers, however. The HHS report singles out several corporate programs that encourage workers to adopt healthier behaviors and manage their diseases.

“Smart business leaders are increasingly finding that it is the right decision to promote health education, physical activity and preventive benefits in the workplace,” said HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson when the report was released.

The bulk of the study stressed the need to change individual attitudes and behaviors, calling them “the root cause of chronic conditions.” But the report also acknowledged that people face “significant barriers [to change] in their social and physical environments.”

Many of the corporate programs praised in the report rely on counseling, education and other interventions that target risky behaviors like smoking or lack of exercise. However, relatively little research has been done to determine if these programs will result in better health and fewer costs over the long run, the study concluded.

To read the full report, go to here.