Background Occupational contact dermatitis (OCD) is the most commonly recognized occupational disease in Denmark. Objectives To examine the impact of recognized OCD on employment degree, sick leave, unemployment and job change. Methods Data on all recognized cases of OCD notified in Denmark between 2010 and 2015 (n=8940) was linked to information on social transfer payments in the years before and after notification. The number of weeks on unemployment benefits or sick leave and the employment degree during the two years prior to notification was compared with the two years following notification. Results The employment degree decreased by on average 8.9 work-hours/month, corresponding to an average annual loss of income per worker of approximately € 1570. The average number of weeks workers were on unemployment benefits and paid long-term sick leave rose by 2.5 and 3.4 weeks, respectively, corresponding to an average additional annual cost per worker of approximately € 420 and € 770, respectively. Longer case-processing time was significantly associated with lower employment degree and higher levels of unemployment and sick leave. Conclusions OCD has a significant negative impact on employment and economics. Thus, highlighting the need for a national, strategic action plan for effective prevention of OCD. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
