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Local labor market fluctuations and health: Is there a connection and for whom?

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  • Charles, Kerwin Kofi
  • DeCicca, Philip

Abstract

We examine the relationship between local labor market conditions and several measures of health and health behaviors for a sample of working-aged men living in the 58 largest metropolitan areas in the United States. We find evidence of procyclical relationships for weight-related health and mental health for men with low ex ante employment probabilities. Separate estimates suggest worsening labor market conditions lead to weight gains and reduced mental health among African-American men and lower mental health among less-educated males. Among our findings, those related to mental health are most pronounced.

Suggested Citation

  • Charles, Kerwin Kofi & DeCicca, Philip, 2008. "Local labor market fluctuations and health: Is there a connection and for whom?," Journal of Health Economics, Elsevier, vol. 27(6), pages 1532-1550, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jhecon:v:27:y:2008:i:6:p:1532-1550
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