Work-Related Factors Associated With Health and Well-Being of Early Care and Education Workers

ObjectiveWe assessed and examined relationships between the health and working conditions of early care and education workers.MethodsWe surveyed early care and education workers (n = 2242) about their socioeconomic characteristics; work organization; psychosocial, physical, and ergonomic exposures; coping behaviors; and health.ResultsNearly half of respondents reported chronic health conditions. Most worked full time, half earned less than $30,000 a year, and many reported unpaid hours or inability to take breaks. One-quarter reported economic strain. Numerous exposures were prevalent. Workers' general health was poorer than normed averages, although their physical functioning was slightly better. Sixteen percent of workers reported work-related injuries, and 43% reported depressive symptoms. Factors associated with health included socioeconomic characteristics, having a chronic condition, job type, access to benefits, eight psychosocial stressors, four physical exposures, sleep, and alcohol consumption.ConclusionsFindings support the need for attention to this workforce's health.