Factors associated with short-term disability episodes.
OBJECTIVE
This study examines factors associated with a mental/behavioral disorder-related short-term disability episode versus a physical disorder-related disability episode using administrative longitudinal data.


METHODS
Logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between worker characteristics and different types of disability episodes.


RESULTS
A previous disability episode is significantly associated with a current disability. Nevertheless, mental/behavioral disorders are related to higher odds of another episode. A worker with a previous disability episode related to a mental/behavioral disorder is almost 7x more likely to have another disability episode related to a mental disorder/behavioral disorder.


CONCLUSIONS
One of the critical factors associated with a disability episode is a history of a previous disability episode. Relapse is a critical factor and should be considered in the design of occupational health programs.
Dewa
Carolyn S
CS
Work and Well-being Research and Evaluation Program, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. carolyn_dewa@camh.net
Chau
Nancy
N
Dermer
Stanley
S
D000328:Adult; D002170:Canada; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D018582:Sick Leave