Between 2013 and 2018, the index for the total number of people recognised as having an occupational disease (computed using the year 2013 as the reference with an index value of 100) declined by 14% across the European Union (EU).
This article presents experimental statistics covering the most commonly recognised occupational diseases in the EU. Fundamental to improving working conditions, these statistics enable preventive actions to be monitored and prioritised at country level.
During the 2013-2018 period, among the four groups of diseases for which sub-indices are available, pneumoconiosis (a group of diseases caused by the inhalation of dust, including asbestos) and selected occupational cancers recorded significant declines (down 27% and 18% respectively). Contact dermatitis declined by a smaller amount (down 2%), while musculoskeletal disorders saw no change.
Source dataset: hsw_occ_ina
The European Occupational Diseases Statistics (EODS) are part of Eurostat’s experimental statistics, which use new data sources and methods in an effort to better respond to users' needs. As these statistics have not reached full maturity in terms of harmonisation, coverage or methodology, they are always marked with a clearly visible logo and accompanied by detailed methodological notes.
For more information:
- Statistics explained article Occupational diseases statistics.
- Eurostat “Experimental statistics” webpage, section dedicated to European Occupational Diseases Statistics (EODS), which includes country profiles.
- The data for the EU are based on (at most) information for 24 EU Member States (excluding Germany, Greece and Portugal).
- The data presented refer to a short list of diseases, the most commonly recognised in the majority of the Member States
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