Mortality among Swedish seafarers 1985-2013.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Seafarers face unique occupational exposures and health risks.
• Previous studies on seafarer mortality have yielded varied results.
• Understanding long-term mortality trends in this population is crucial for targeted health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare mortality rates of Swedish seafarers with the general population.
• To analyze differences in mortality based on occupational categories and over time.
• To identify specific causes of increased mortality among seafarers.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal register-based cohort study of 85,169 Swedish seafarers (1985-2013).
• Data linkage with the Swedish Cause of Death Register.
• Calculation of standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) stratified by gender, job category, and time period, with follow-up until age 66.

Main Results:

• Overall mortality was elevated in male seafarers (SMR: 1.27) and borderline in females (SMR: 1.14), particularly for those starting work before 1985.
• Increased mortality ratios were observed for lung cancer, accidents, suicides, and mental disorders, especially among crew members.
• While SMRs generally decreased over time, accident mortality remained high for crew starting after 1985 (SMR: 1.64).

Conclusions:

• Swedish seafarers exhibited increased mortality compared to the general population during 1985-2013, with crew members facing the highest risks.
• Accident-related mortality remains a significant concern for seafarers, including those entering the profession after 1985.
• The findings highlight the need for continued occupational health surveillance and targeted safety measures for seafarers.