Chronic conditions and the workforce
Australian researchers have found that chronic disease development is a barrier to keeping older people in the workforce.
The study also looked at which industries were affected by particular health problems.
Dr Deborah Schofield of Northern Rivers University Department of Rural Health, which conducted the research, said retail trade employees were more likely to develop arthritis and back pain, while health and community services workers had the highest rates of cardiovascular disease.
Managers and administrators showed a lower incidence of cancer, but researchers suggest this could be because they can afford to retire if they experience poor health.
Researchers said the study confirms that the impact of chronic health problems will be felt hardest in the retail, health and community services sectors.
