Local economy and sickness absence: prospective cohort study

Abstract

Working in areas of poor local economy is associated with increased long term sickness absence but decreased probability to take a short term sick leave. Unemployment rate may have an effect on the threshold to take a sick leave in relation to minor illnesses even when area deprivation poses health risk to its residents. To prevent adverse health effects of presenteeism, working while ill, and to reduce medically certified sickness absence, potential benefits may be attained by improving economic conditions and re-employment in deprived areas.