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Life-cycle health effects of compulsory military service in the GDR

Author

Listed:
  • Hübner, Niklas
  • Stahl, Nuan Susanne
  • Süß, Karolin

Abstract

We examine the long-term health effects of peacetime conscription in the German Democratic Republic using a regression-discontinuity design that exploits the introduction of conscription in 1962 and resulting variation in conscription between birth cohorts. Conscription eligibility increases musculoskeletal hospitalizations later in life, consistent with descriptive evidence on overuse injuries during service, and raises sick leave during draft-eligible ages and after the German reunification. These effects are not explained by education or wages but partly by occupational sorting into physically demanding jobs. Our findings highlight lasting health burdens of military service and long-term consequences of physical strain and injury.

Suggested Citation

  • Hübner, Niklas & Stahl, Nuan Susanne & Süß, Karolin, 2025. "Life-cycle health effects of compulsory military service in the GDR," Ruhr Economic Papers 1191, RWI - Leibniz-Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung, Ruhr-University Bochum, TU Dortmund University, University of Duisburg-Essen.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:rwirep:334530
    DOI: 10.4419/96973376
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Eibich, Peter, 2015. "Understanding the effect of retirement on health: Mechanisms and heterogeneity," Journal of Health Economics, Elsevier, vol. 43(C), pages 1-12.
    2. Clémentine Garrouste & Elsa Perdrix, 2022. "Is there a consensus on the health consequences of retirement? A literature review," Journal of Economic Surveys, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 36(4), pages 841-879, September.
    3. Arthur Seibold, 2021. "Reference Points for Retirement Behavior: Evidence from German Pension Discontinuities," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 111(4), pages 1126-1165, April.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • H56 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - National Security and War
    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • P36 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Socialist Institutions and Their Transitions - - - Consumer Economics; Health; Education and Training; Welfare, Income, Wealth, and Poverty

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