Sickness Absence and Disability: An International Perspective

Abstract

Disability in the context of labour is mainly manifested in sickness absence (short-term or temporary work incapacity) and exit from work due to dependency on disability benefit schemes (long-term or permanent). This chapter provides an insight into some basic cross-national features of sickness absence and disability, mainly as manifested in persons at working age (15–64 years). More or less recently developed sources (with sufficient cross-national validity) show that sickness absence has various similarities, when compared across countries (e.g., as to gender, age groups, economic sector, or season). But at country level sickness absence rates differ considerably, which is substantially related to benefit arrangements and job protection regulations.

Based on data from recent EU and OECD studies on (self reported) disability and benefit dependency, the chapter further demonstrates several findings. The percentage of persons on disability benefit receipt varies considerably across (OECD) countries, but they also have something in common: the number of disability benefit recipients increased substantially between 1980 and 2007. And an almost “universal pattern” can be noted for the same period: (very) low outflow from the benefit schemes into employment.

The need to address this challenge is urgent as three widespread developments may increase the problem. One regarding the rise of disabling mental health conditions in the general and working age populations. The other two comprise the growing numbers of young persons with disabilities and the growth of chronic diseases. The latter may be considered as a worldwide phenomenon, which is associated with ageing of populations, spreading of lifestyle related risk factors, but also success of health care (that transformed mortality to morbidity and increased survival).