Association of Single and Multiple Medical Conditions with Work Status among Adults in the United States

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to comprehensively examine the association of a multitude of individual medical conditions, as well as multimorbidity, on work status among a national sample of U.S. adults. METHODS: The present study included 7 cycles (1999–2012) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (N = 28,119). RESULTS: In total, 26 medical conditions increased the odds of not working. Multimorbidity as well as having prevalent medical condition(s) within each of the Cumulative Index Rating Scale Morbidity Classes were associated with increased odds of not working. Few medical conditions were associated with higher odds of working part-time (vs. full-time) or unemployment (vs. working). CONCLUSION: These findings underscore the importance of instating comprehensive worksite wellness health promotion policies, as well as providing individuals with resources to preserve and enhance personal health.