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International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health

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01-01-2014 | Original Article

The impact of common mental disorders on work ability in mentally and physically demanding construction work

Authors: J. S. Boschman, H. F. van der Molen, M. H. W. Frings-Dresen, J. K. Sluiter

Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health | Issue 1/2014

Abstract

Purpose

To gain insight into (1) the prevalence and incidence of common mental disorders (CMD) and low work ability among bricklayers and construction supervisors; (2) the impact of CMD on current work ability and work ability 1 year later and (3) the added value of job-specific questions about work ability for detecting signs of low work ability.

Methods

We randomly selected 750 bricklayers and 750 supervisors. This sample was surveyed by means of a baseline questionnaire and a follow-up questionnaire 1 year later. Work ability was measured with the first three questions of the Work Ability Index and job-specific questions. Self-reported CMD were measured with instruments designed to detect a high need for recovery after work, distress and depression. We used univariate logistic regression to analyse the presence or absence of CMD as independent variable.

Results

The prevalence and incidence of CMD among 199 bricklayers and 224 supervisors was 22 %/10 % and 32 %/15 %, respectively. The prevalence of low general work ability was comparable for both occupations (5 %). CMD were associated with low current work ability and low work ability at follow-up (ORs 4.3–22.4), but not with a reduction in work ability 1 year later. Questions on job-specific work ability resulted in more indications of low work ability among both occupations than did questions on general work ability.

Conclusions

Regardless of occupation, workers who report CMD at baseline have a high likelihood of current low work ability and low work ability 1 year later.

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Title: The impact of common mental disorders on work ability in mentally and physically demanding construction work
Authors: J. S. Boschman
H. F. van der Molen
M. H. W. Frings-Dresen
J. K. Sluiter
Publication date: 01-01-2014
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health / Issue 1/2014
Print ISSN: 0340-0131
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1246
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-012-0837-6

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

The impact of common mental disorders on work ability in mentally and physically demanding construction work

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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