The number of working-age individuals suffering from illnesses appears to be increasing, with the Office for National Statistics warning of individuals leaving the job industry due to health issues. The Health Foundation conducted research indicating that the same number of individuals aged 16 to 64 both in work and out of work have health difficulties limiting their daily tasks, and that approximately a fifth of the UK working-age population are affected by conditions that limit their productivity. These illnesses are so prevalent that it’s also posing a threat to the UK’s economic capacity. Research conducted by the Health Foundation also demonstrated that chronic pain, diabetes type 2, and mental health issues are responsible for the majority of ill-health burdens.
The situation regarding frequent illness amongst the working-age population has been compounded by greater challenges in accessing healthcare. Christopher Rocks, who is responsible for the Health Foundation’s work in this field, says the trend has actually been developing over the last ten years due to the effect of the 2008 financial crisis, which resulted in a dearth of public spending. This had many secondary effects on people’s well-being. In addition, fundamental health requirements such as good housing and adequate incomes, are under severe stress.
The Health Foundation has found that there are three diseases causing a major burden of ill health, which are chronic pain, type 2 diabetes, and mental health issues. Chronic pain can go unnoticed, representing an “invisible” disease that leads to restrictions on individuals’ social and working lives; this is most frequently experienced by people with arthritis, joint issues, or other problems. Joint treatment has some of the longest waiting times of any specialty, says Tracey Loftis from the charity Versus Arthritis, which has left people waiting for specialist healthcare.
Youth mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, are on the rise, with more symptoms reported in all age groups, and a report published by the Resolution Foundation in February suggests young people may have a higher probability of experiencing mental health problems than any other age category. Type 2 diabetes has increased due to lifestyle changes, including to diets and insufficient physical activity. Social deprivation is closely related to the illness, with the frequency of type 2 diabetes more than twice as high in the most deprived locations than in the least.
As public financing is tight, addressing these issues is a significant issue. Additionally, the Health Foundation’s report warns that tackling these illnesses would necessitate a cross-government policy approach, with extra funding being given to the NHS, councils, and voluntary organisations. Mr Rocks noted that a healthy workforce is required to have a strong economy, and employers must also do more to improve the working environments, support staff welfare, and make necessary adjustments for those that have health-related limitations in the workforces
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