Cardiovascular disease in the workplace: how to leverage data-driven solutions to the biggest health challenge facing employers

In today’s fast-paced corporate landscape, the health and well-being of employees are paramount for sustained productivity and success. One of the most prevalent health challenges facing workplaces is cardiovascular disease, particularly coronary artery disease (CAD). Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. About 695,000 people in the United States died from heart disease in 2021 — that’s 1 in every 5 deaths. The impact of cardiovascular issues goes beyond the individual — it affects the entire work environment, from productivity dips to increased healthcare costs.

As many as 1 in 4 individuals who get CAD are invisible to current assessments based on a variety of clinical risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes. These individuals could be provided with preventive healthcare solutions, but their risk is undetected and they are left untreated. Each employee’s genetics and lifestyle combination confer a different risk; a well-rounded wellness program acknowledges and supports this complexity. Polygenic risk score (PRS) for CAD provides a more accurate measure of an individual’s risk by taking into account multiple common genetic variants of small effect, allowing for many more people to be categorized as at-risk. CardioriskSCORE is the first workplace wellness program that actually incorporates a DNA-based PRS test for coronary artery disease to more accurately identify high risk employees and help them to lower their risk.

The Cardiovascular Conundrum: A Workplace Challenge

Cardiovascular disease is a silent predator that affects millions of lives globally, and its implications are not limited to personal health alone. The workplace bears a significant burden due to reduced productivity, absenteeism, increased healthcare costs, and even loss of valuable talent. Employees dealing with cardiovascular issues often struggle with reduced energy levels, decreased cognitive function, and heightened stress, all of which can impede their performance and engagement.

In the face of this challenge, a data-driven approach can be a game-changer. Imagine being able to identify employees at higher risk for coronary artery disease before it becomes a full-blown health crisis. That’s where cardioriskSCORE comes in.

Rising to the challenge with cardioriskSCORE

Our innovative workplace wellness program isn’t just another generic health initiative — it’s a meticulously designed solution, developed through years of robust research and validation, that employs advanced genetic insights to empower your employees to take control of their cardiovascular health. At the heart of this program is the PRS test for CAD, a cutting-edge genetic assessment that evaluates an individual’s genetic predisposition to heart issues. By identifying those with a higher genetic risk early on, we can initiate proactive measures to prevent or manage cardiovascular concerns.

How PRS Works

The PRS test analyzes multiple genetic markers associated with CAD, producing a comprehensive risk score. This score, combined with other health data and lifestyle information, creates a personalized health profile for each employee. Armed with this knowledge, individuals can work with healthcare professionals to devise tailored strategies for better heart health.

Benefits Beyond Health: A Win-Win for Employers

Implementing this data-driven workplace wellness program offers several compelling benefits for employers:

• Enhanced Productivity: Healthier employees are more engaged and productive. By addressing cardiovascular risks early, we help your workforce maintain optimal cognitive function and energy levels.
• Reduced Absenteeism: Fewer health-related absences translate to increased operational continuity and lower costs associated with sick leave.
• Cost Savings: Preventive measures are more cost-effective than dealing with the aftermath of health crises. Our program not only reduces healthcare expenses but also contributes to long-term savings.
• Attract and Retain Talent: A robust wellness program enhances your company’s reputation as an employer that prioritizes employee well-being, making it easier to attract and retain top-tier talent.
• Positive Work Environment: A focus on health fosters a workplace culture that values employees as whole individuals, boosting morale and camaraderie.

Investing in your employees’ well-being is a strategic move that pays dividends. Our data-driven workplace wellness program, fueled by the precision of the PRS test for coronary artery disease, empowers your workforce to take charge of their cardiovascular health like never before. By preventing health issues before they disrupt productivity and personal lives, you’re not just improving the bottom line — you’re fostering a workplace that thrives on vitality, resilience, and shared success.

For more information on cardioriskSCORE, schedule a 30 minute meeting or send us an email at info@allelica.com today.