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The prevalence of functional limitations in the US workforce
Hailey Clark1, Bastian Ravesteijn2, Kathleen J Mullen3,4,5
1Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115.
Summary
Nearly 75% of working US adults have functional limitations, averaging six per person. Mental illness, arthritis, and substance use disorders correlate with the most limitations, impacting workforce planning.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Functional limitations are prevalent among working adults in the United States.
- Understanding these limitations and their associated medical conditions is crucial for workforce planning and social policy.
- Previous research has not fully characterized the scope of functional limitations in the US working population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of functional limitations among employed US adults.
- To examine the association between specific medical conditions and the number of functional limitations.
- To inform economic performance, workforce planning, and social policies.
Main Methods:
- A nationally representative sample of US adults aged 22 and older was surveyed.
- The survey instrument was adapted from the Dutch Functional Abilities List.
- Data analysis focused on prevalence rates and associations between limitations and medical conditions.
Main Results:
- Nearly three-quarters of working adults reported at least one functional limitation.
- The average number of functional limitations per working adult was nearly six.
- Common limitations involved upper body strength, torso range of motion, and environmental factors.
- Mental illness, arthritis, and substance use disorder were linked to the highest number of functional limitations.
Conclusions:
- Functional limitations are widespread among the US working population.
- Specific medical conditions significantly increase the number of functional limitations experienced by workers.
- Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and policies to support vulnerable workers and address workforce challenges.
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