Occupational Health

Employment is a major determinant of health and healthy ageing

Working life exposures can lead to many diseases. It has been estimated that 1 in 4 of European citizens of working age suffer from a chronic health problem, which is the premier reason for workers to exit paid employment with large social and financial consequences. Unfortunately, little information is available on how work affects co-morbidity, the ability of workers with chronic disease to remain in paid employment, and the interplay between extended working careers, increasing longevity, and functional capacity.

Therefore, ensuring a safe and healthy work environment is important. Unfortunately, there is a major unutilized potential in exploring the association between working life or occupation and health. In Utrecht, research is focused on environmental and occupational risk factors for chronic diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

Research Projects

Cohort Studies