The role and contributions of Occupational health research to the health and wealth of nations

The health and wealth of nations are inter-related.  People in poor countries have poorer states of health.  For example, low GDP (Gross Domestic product) countries such as Ethiopia, Liberia, Burundi and several other mainly African countries have high infant and maternal mortality rates when compared to high GDP countries.  Unhealthy individuals are also unprepared or unable to obtain gainful employment, thereby reducing their ability to contribute to the economy of a country.  Does occupational health research contribute to improved health and wealth of a nation?  This is possible, but dependent on many factors.  These include:  a) the need for a reasonable amount of relevant research  b) the research results should be widely disseminated, and   c) the findings should be translated into effective preventive action.    There are good examples where occupational health research can contribute to improvements in health of the workforce.  The research that confirmed vinyl chloride monomer as a liver carcinogen resulted in controls on exposure in the US and Europe, and reduced the occurrence of angiosarcoma of the liver from this exposure.  Research showing asbestos to be a respiratory carcinogen led to its ban in many countries, although there are still disparities in the extent of continuing asbestos use.  Despite the evidence of harm to health, there is even an increase in use in some Asian countries.  In the United Arab Emirates, specific research on reducing the likelihood of heat stress was translated into practical advice targeting employers, employees, and workplaces.  The reduction in cases of heat-related illness has led to benefits for workers’ health.  The challenges for occupational health include a) determining the reduction of morbidity or mortality following workplace interventions as a result of research findings, and b) quantifying gains in the wealth of nations from such measures.