Ecological and Regional Disparities in the Impact of Autoimmune Diseases on Global Labor Market Dynamics: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Aim: Climate change has intensified the prevalence of chronic diseases, particularly autoimmune diseases (ADs), which severely affect the health and labor market participation of the working-age population. While ADs are not typically fatal, their chronic nature and high disability rates lead to significant labor force attrition. This study explores the impact of ADs on the labor market, particularly in regions affected by climate change.

Methods: This study integrates labor market data with re-estimated ADs burden data from 1990 to 2021. Using time series analysis, multivariate regression, and geographic variation analysis, the research examines the relationship between ADs burden and labor force participation, with a focus on the exacerbating effects of climate change. Data was sourced from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database.

Results: In 2021, the global labor force with ADs was 86,295,350, with a prevalence rate of 1644.55 per 100,000. Women had a significantly higher prevalence (1841.96 per 100,000) compared to men (1448.6 per 100,000). The total disability-adjusted life Years (DALYs) for ADs was 18,513,645 person-years, with women experiencing higher DALYs (386.3 per 100,000). Regions severely affected by climate change showed increased ADs prevalence and a decline in labor force participation.

Conclusion: ADs significantly contribute to global labor market decline, with climate change amplifying the health burden. Gender disparities are notable, and ADs' impact on labor force participation highlights the need for comprehensive public health policies and labor market interventions.

Keywords

autoimmune diseases / climate change / global burden / labor markets / public health

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

2025 Chinese Cochrane Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.