- D3.504 - Allergic Diseases as a Leading Cause of Early Retirement in Occupational Settings

When allergen avoidance is impossible, occupational allergic diseases may force workers into early retirement (ER), reflecting failure of job retention strategies.

Retrospective analysis of 151 ER applications for premature bodily wear or disability at Farhat Hached University Hospital (2022–2023). Allergic etiology was confirmed in medical records using standardized criteria.

Allergic diseases accounted for 36.4% (n = 55) of ER cases. Mean age: 54.2 ± 4.9 years; mean tenure: 26.2 ± 8.5 years. Top sectors: textiles (20%) and healthcare (18.1%). Occupational asthma represented 87.3% of cases. ER was granted for premature bodily wear in 83.6% and disability in 16.4%. In most cases, no reassignment or adaptation was feasible.

Occupational allergies are a major driver of early retirement, highlighting gaps in prevention and workplace accommodation. Strengthening primary prevention and protected reintegration pathways is critical to avoid premature workforce exit.