Sickness presenteeism at work: prevalence, costs and management
1School of Psychology, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, Bedfordshire, England, UK.
British Medical Bulletin
|January 17, 2019
Summary
Presenteeism, or working while ill, is rising and carries risks. Understanding its causes and impacts is crucial for employee health and safety management.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Presenteeism, defined as attending work while ill, is an increasing concern.
- Factors encouraging presenteeism and its associated risks require greater awareness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research on presenteeism, its influencing factors, and consequences.
- To highlight the rising incidence and implications of working while sick.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of studies from databases like Medline and Psycinfo.
- Synthesis of research on contextual and individual factors associated with presenteeism.
Main Results:
- Presenteeism is linked to various individual and contextual factors, with healthcare workers at higher risk.
- While potentially aiding recovery, presenteeism can worsen health, increase future absence, and reduce work capacity.
- Sickness presenteeism is increasing as absenteeism decreases, posing risks, especially in safety-critical roles.
Conclusions:
- Measuring presenteeism alongside absenteeism offers a clearer picture of employee health.
- Addressing pressures and risks associated with working while sick is vital.
- Systemic, evidence-based interventions are needed to manage presenteeism effectively.
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