Groundbreaking study on workforce health published in PNAS

The study, titled "The Prevalence of Functional Limitations in the United States Workforce", provides striking new evidence on the health challenges facing the American labour force. Ravesteijn’s research, conducted together with Hailey Clark (Harvard University) Kathleen J. Mullen (University of Oregon), and Nicole Maestas (Harvard University), analyses data from a nationally representative survey of U.S. adults aged 22 and older. Adapting a methodology from the Dutch Functional Abilities List (functionelemogelijkhedenlijst), the team uncovered that nearly 75% of working adults report at least one functional limitation affecting their work capacity. On average, employed adults report nearly seven such limitations.

Chronic conditions impact workforce capacity becomes critical

‘These findings underscore a hidden dimension of labour market vulnerability,’ says Bastian Ravesteijn. ‘From upper body strength to emotional regulation, functional limitations are widespread and connected to medical conditions like arthritis, mental illness, and substance use disorders.

The study’s implications are far-reaching. As the U.S. prepares for a rapidly aging population and contends with ongoing public health and labour market disruptions, understanding how chronic conditions impact workforce capacity becomes critical. The research identifies specific occupations and industries where functional limitations are most prevalent, helping guide policy efforts aimed at supporting affected workers and maintaining economic productivity.

The paper emphasises that a nation's economic future depends on the health and productivity of its workforce. This work offers crucial insights for designing interventions that ensure inclusive workforce participation and resilience in the face of health-related labor shortages.