Early death risk varies according to occupation

New research shows that the risk of death from diseases and injuries caused by alcohol, drugs and sexual habits varies significantly between different jobs and professions.

The study published in the scientific journal Occupational Medicine undertook an analysis of 1.6 million deaths over a ten year period and found that the rates of death from diseases and injuries related to alcohol, sexual habits and drugs were much higher in certain occupations.

Painters, bricklayers, plasterers, roofers and those working in the artistic and literary professions had approximately twice the average rate of death from drug abuse. Merchant seamen and people working in pubs and catering had much higher risks of alcohol-related death.

Tailors, dressmakers and male hairdressers had nine times the average risk of death from HIV infection. While in general, the diseases and injuries that caused these deaths are unlikely to be a direct consequence of work, the study is important because it highlights opportunities for preventive action.