23/10/2007
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) is the most widespread occupational-related illness in the EU. However, despite this prevalence, there have been few efforts to estimate the overall costs of the illness. Statistics on MSDs tend to underestimate the extent while failing to take the national situation and changing work context into account. Researchers agree that nowadays MSDs which are directly linked to strenuous working conditions are on the decline, while those related to stress and work overload are increasing. Organisational problems can be at the root of MSDs, and a participatory approach to prevention policies has found to be effective. The study was compiled on the basis of individual national reports submitted by the European Working Conditions Observatory, a body accountable to the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Dublin Foundation).

• The comparative study