Cross-border mobility in European countries: associations between cross-border worker status and health outcomes

Abstract Background Mobility of workers living in one country and working a different has increased the European Union. Exposed to commuting factors, cross-border (CBWs) constitute potential high-risk population. But relationships between health abroad are under-documented. Our aims were to: (1) measure prevalence perceived status physical outcomes (activity limitation, chronic diseases, disability no leisure activities), (2) analyse their associations with as well (3) income index among CBWs. Methods Based on ‘ Enquête Emploi ’, French cross-sectional survey segment Labour Force Survey (EU LFS), population was composed 2,546,802 workers. Inclusion criteria for samples aged 20 60 years departments Germany, Belgium, Switzerland Luxembourg. The Health Index is an additional obtained five variables. A logistic model used estimate odds ratios each group CBWs, taking non-cross border (NCBWs) reference group, controlling by demographic background labour Results sample 22,828 observations (2456 CBWs vs. 20,372 NCBWs) retained. CBW negatively associated diseases disability. marginal improvement correlated wage premium both NCBWs Commuters Luxembourg have best outcomes, whereas commuters Germany worst. Conclusion healthier more income. Interpretations suggest healthy phenomenon steming from social selection positive association confirmed; existence major disparities CBWs; rejection spillover assumption newly founded Authority (ELA) should take into account policies promising way support mobility within