# Comprehensive Health Challenges and Management Strategies for International Business Travelers: A Scoping Review

## TL;DR

This review explores the health risks faced by international business travelers and highlights the need for better corporate health strategies to address these challenges.

## Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive scoping review of health challenges and management strategies for international business travelers.

## Key findings

- Health risks for international business travelers include infectious diseases, sleep disturbances, and mental stress.
- Limited pre-travel consultations and vaccinations were identified as significant concerns, especially among Japanese travelers.
- Effective corporate health policies and psychological support are essential for managing the well-being of international business travelers.

## Abstract

The globalization of economic activities has led to a significant increase in international business travelers (IBTs), exposing them to various health risks, including infectious diseases, physical and psychological stress, and inadequate access to medical care. However, comprehensive research on IBTs’ health remains limited. This study aims to assess IBTs’ health concerns through a scoping review, focusing on illnesses during travel, the impact on daily life and well-being, and corporate health management.

A scoping review was conducted following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Extensive searches were performed in MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Ichushi-Web, targeting studies for studies published between 2013 and 2022. Eligible studies addressed IBTs’ physical and mental health or healthcare access. A two-step screening process was applied, and relevant data were extracted and categorized.

A total of 31 studies were included. Health risks for IBTs were classified into three categories: (1) travel-related illnesses, including infectious diseases and medical emergencies; (2) physical and psychological health impacts, such as sleep disturbances, obesity, and mental stress; and (3) corporate health management strategies. Limited pre-travel consultations and vaccinations were notable concerns, particularly among Japanese IBTs.

IBTs face significant health risks that require improved prevention strategies, including vaccination programs, corporate health policies, and psychological support. As global business travel resumes post-pandemic, comprehensive health management tailored to IBTs’ needs is essential to ensure their well-being and operational efficiency.