Positive health behaviors and their relationships with well-being and work ability of Polish women: Research results

Introduction Lifestyle is considered one of the most important determinants of health, which most of us have an influence on and can modify. However, it is necessary to raise health awareness among people so that they know how to do it effectively. Objective This study examines the relationships between health behaviors, well-being, and work ability among Polish female employees. Material and methods Anonymous questionnaire surveys conducted among 927 women aged 18−65, using the CAWI method, using a survey developed for the project containing selected standard tools (Work Ability Index, WHO-5 Well-being Index) and a personal survey including personal data and questions regarding, among others: self-assessment of health status and care for it, and well-being. Results Women obtained an average result in the Positive Health Behavior Scale; they received an average of 60.3 points out of 102 possible to obtain. Women’s care for their health increased with age; women performing mental work obtained better results than those who performed physical and mixed work. A statistically significant relationship between positive health behaviors and well-being and work ability was demonstrated. Conclusions Due to the average care of women for their health, there is a need to constantly raise their health awareness, preferably through health education conducted at the workplace.