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Objectives: A literature review for the years 1984-2004 was performed to identify the determinants of the sick leave frequency and duration over that period and to establish the continuity in the character of those determinants. Materials and Methods: The review referred to national and international studies on the determinants of the frequency and duration of sick leave. Results: The review presented a highly consistent picture of the factors determining sick leave frequency and duration. Conclusion: Over the study period, the frequency and duration of sick leave were determined by a broad range of factors, a substantial number of which had a similar influence on both the study parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Regional differences in sick leave frequency and duration determinants were studied between different professions (sale and cleaning) in different regions in the Netherlands (Utrecht and South Limburg) and the influence of socio-cultural factors on those determinants was explored. Materials and Methods: Employees in Utrecht and South Limburg were interviewed on work, individual and health characteristics. Sick leave data were obtained from the social fund. Results: A statistic comparison of sick leave frequency and duration figures between the two professions in the two regions showed that for a part similar, and for another part different determinants were associated with sick leave. Conclusion: In Utrecht, socio-cultural influence was assumed for the perception of autonomy and in South Limburg for health complaints. As a consequence, nationwide interventions to reduce sick leave should take into account the potential effects of sociocultural factors on the type of sick leave determinants that predict sick leave per region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]