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Impact of musculoskeletal and medical conditions on disability retirement—a longitudinal study among construction roofers
Author(s) -
Welch Laura S.,
Haile Elizabeth,
Boden Leslie I.,
Hunting Katherine L.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
american journal of industrial medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.7
H-Index - 104
eISSN - 1097-0274
pISSN - 0271-3586
DOI - 10.1002/ajim.20794
Subject(s) - medicine , longitudinal study , occupational medicine , gerontology , musculoskeletal disorder , physical therapy , environmental health , occupational exposure , human factors and ergonomics , poison control , pathology
Background To assess the intersection of work demands, chronic medical and musculoskeletal conditions, aging, and disability, we initiated a longitudinal study of construction roofers who were current union members between the ages of 40 and 59. Methods Participants were asked about the presence of medical conditions and musculoskeletal disorders; the Work Limitations Questionnaire, the SF‐12, and other validated assessments of social and economic impact of injury were included. Results Factors at baseline that predicted leaving for a health‐related reason were older age, lower physical functioning, work limitations, and having missed work. Those who left roofing for a health‐related reason were much more likely to have a lower economic score at the 1 year interview. Conclusions Medical and musculoskeletal conditions are strongly associated with work limitation, missed work, and reduced physical functioning; these factors are also associated with premature departure from the workforce. Am. J. Ind. Med. 53: 552–560, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.