Introduction
The UK construction industry is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, employing hundreds of thousands of workers. However, recent studies reveal a concerning trend: a significant proportion of construction workers are overweight or obese. In a 2025 cross-sectional study, 32.6% of UK construction workers were classified as overweight, with 51.7% exhibiting elevated blood pressure and 30.2% falling under Stage 1 hypertension.These figures align with broader international findings, where up to 73.3% of construction workers in some studies were overweight or obese.This prevalence is notably higher than in many other occupational sectors.
The Impact of Excess Weight on Construction Performance
Physical Demands and Musculoskeletal Strain
Construction work is physically demanding, requiring strength, endurance, and flexibility. Excess body weight increases the strain on the musculoskeletal system, making tasks such as lifting, carrying, and climbing more challenging. Overweight workers are at higher risk for musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in the neck, shoulders, lower back, legs, and knees. Nearly half of construction workers report experiencing body pain in the past three months, with pain most commonly affecting areas critical for manual labour.
Productivity, Absenteeism, and Safety
Excess weight is correlated with increased absenteeism and reduced productivity. Workers with higher body weight are more likely to be absent due to health issues, leading to lower overall wages and greater indirect costs for employers.Obesity also raises the risk of occupational diseases, including cardiovascular disease, asthma, and vibration-induced injuries. Additionally, excess weight can limit the effectiveness of personal protective equipment and increase the likelihood of workplace accidents, particularly when operating heavy machinery or working at heights.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Beyond physical health, overweight construction workers are more likely to experience mental health challenges. In the UK, 74.3% of construction workers were found to have medium mental wellbeing, and over half showed signs of minimal depression. Stress, depression, and anxiety are significant predictors of sickness absence and presenteeism, further impacting workplace performance.
Why Addressing Excess Weight Matters
The high prevalence of overweight and obesity among construction workers is not just a personal health issue-it’s a sector-wide concern. Excess body weight contributes to:
- Increased risk of chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease)
- Higher rates of musculoskeletal injuries and pain
- More frequent and longer absences from work
- Reduced productivity and efficiency
- Greater risk of workplace accidents and safety incidents
These factors combine to create a substantial economic burden for both workers and employers, making effective weight management strategies a priority for the industry.
New Solutions: Medical Weight Loss Programmes
The Rise of Semaglutide and Ozempic
In the UK, there has been a surge in interest around new weight loss medications, particularly those containing semaglutide, such as Ozempic and Wegovy. While Ozempic is primarily licensed for type 2 diabetes, its active ingredient, semaglutide, is also used in Wegovy, which is approved for weight management.Awareness of these medications is high: 42.4% of UK respondents know about semaglutide, and 44.8% have used it for weight loss. These medications work by suppressing appetite and regulating blood sugar, helping users achieve significant weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.
SheMed: A Safe, Affordable Programme for Women
For those seeking a structured, medically supervised weight loss programme, SheMed offers a comprehensive solution tailored specifically for women. The SheMed programme starts at just £99 for the first month, which includes a full blood test to ensure safety and suitability.
Participants benefit from:
- Personalised medical oversight and monthly clinical reviews
- Progress tracking and weekly check-ins
- Support for managing side effects
- A starter kit with all necessary supplies
SheMed’s approach is rooted in safety, with a full refund if the initial blood test reveals any contraindications.Many women report significant weight loss, improved energy, and greater confidence after joining the programme.
Table: Health Risks and Performance Impacts of Excess Weight in Construction Workers
| Health Factor | Impact on Construction Workers | Supporting Data/Source |
| Musculoskeletal Disorders | Increased pain in back, knees, neck, shoulders | 46.6% report body pain |
| Cardiovascular Disease | Higher risk due to obesity and hypertension | 51.7% have elevated BP |
| Productivity | More sick leave, reduced efficiency | Higher absenteeism |
| Workplace Safety | Greater accident risk, PPE less effective | Increased incidents |
| Mental Health | Higher rates of depression, anxiety | 74.3% medium wellbeing |
The Path Forward: Prevention and Support
Addressing excess weight among construction workers requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Promoting healthy eating and regular physical activity
- Implementing workplace wellness programmes
- Providing access to medical weight loss options, such as those offered by SheMed
Worksite interventions have shown promise in improving dietary habits and physical activity, though long-term weight loss results can vary.Combining medication with lifestyle changes yields the best outcomes, as most users report greater satisfaction and sustained results.
Conclusion
Excess weight is a significant barrier to optimal performance and safety in the construction industry. With nearly a third of UK construction workers classified as overweight and many experiencing related health issues, the need for effective weight management solutions is urgent. New medical programmes, such as those using semaglutide and offered by SheMed, provide accessible, safe, and affordable options for those ready to take control of their health. Starting at just £99, SheMed’s programme empowers women in construction and beyond to achieve lasting weight loss and improved wellbeing, supporting a healthier, more productive workforce for the future.For more information or to start your journey, visit SheMed and take the first step towards a healthier you.
