Work Matters for Health

On average, American adults spend nearly half of their waking hours at work

Where we work influences our health, not only by exposing us to physical conditions  that have health effects, but also by providing a setting where healthy activities and  behaviors can be promoted.  In addition to features of worksites, the nature of the  work we do and how it is organized also can affect our physical and mental health.   Work can provide a sense of identity, social status and purpose in life, as well as  social support.  For most Americans, employment is the primary source of income,  giving them the means to live in homes and neighborhoods that promote health and to pursue health-promoting behaviors.  In addition, most Americans obtain their health care insurance through their jobs.  Not only does work affect health; health also affects work.  Good health is often needed for employment, particularly for lowskilled workers.  Lack of employment among those who are unable to work because of ill health can lead to further economic and social disadvantage and fewer resources and opportunities to improve health, perpetuating a vicious cycle

Employment-related health problems have significant human and economic costs for individuals and for society overall. In 2007, over 5,000 fatal and 4 million nonfatal work-related injuries and illnesses  were reported in private industry workplaces; about half of the non-fatal injuries  resulted in time away from work due to recuperation, job transfer or job restriction. Some reports have found that the total economic costs to the nation of occupational illness and injury match those of cancer and nearly those of heart disease.

Healthy workers and their families are likely to incur lower medical costs and be more productive, while those with chronic health conditions generate higher costs in terms of health care use, absenteeism, disability and overall reduced productivity. Workplace injuries and work-related illnesses have a major financial impact on both large and small employers.  In 2006, the cost to employers for workers’ compensation totaled $87.6 billion.This issue brief examines how work can affect health, exploring the health effects of  both physical and psychosocial aspects of work as well as of work-related opportunities and resources.  Examples of promising approaches to making work healthier also are provided.