Absenteeism and Presenteeism Associated With Common Health Conditions in Brazilian Workers

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This study describes the effects of common health conditions associated with absenteeism and presenteeism in a population-based sample of workers in Brazil. METHODS: Data were analyzed from the cross-sectional São Paulo Megacity Mental Health Survey on 1737 employed residents aged more than 18 years old conducted from 2005 to 2007. RESULTS: Physical diseases and mental disorders are highly prevalent among Brazilian workers. The prevalence of absenteeism was 12.8%, and the prevalence of presenteeism was 14.3%. The condition most commonly associated with work impairment was mood disorder. CONCLUSIONS: Improving access to care and increasing detection and management of mental disorders should be a priority in Brazil. Occupational health programs and services can play a key role in increasing the productivity of the Brazilian workforce.