Occupational Health Risks Threaten Mexican Workplaces: Betterfly

Occupational diseases are having a growing impact on companies in Mexico due to rising treatment costs, long-term health effects, and reduced employee productivity, reports Betterfly. Changes in workplace dynamics and the recognition of new diseases have underscored the need for better prevention strategies and health benefits. 

Workplace illnesses can stem from inadequate conditions, prolonged exposure to physical or chemical agents, or poor ergonomics. “Health is not only a personal investment — it is also a strategic priority for companies that want to manage costs and maintain productivity,” reports Betterfly.

In 2024, over 1.5 million workers were unable to work due to workplace accidents, incurring a cost of almost MX$10.7 billion (US$629.4 million) in wage subsidies. This highlighted the critical need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate such risks, reports MBN. Chronic exposure to health risks in the workplace remains a concern, particularly in industries like manufacturing, construction, logistics, and office-based work. Among the most common occupational illnesses in Mexico are pneumoconiosis, hearing loss, chronic headaches, intoxications, and musculoskeletal disorders. Each condition is linked to specific workplace environments and practices, often made worse by the lack of protective equipment or poor ergonomic design, reports Betterfly. 

Pneumoconiosis, caused by inhaling industrial dust, affects workers in mining, construction, and manufacturing. Without preventive measures like air filtration and respiratory protection, it can lead to irreversible lung damage. Similarly, hearing loss from prolonged noise exposure is common in industrial settings, impacting safety and communication. 

Chronic headaches, often linked to screen time, stress, and eye strain, affect cognitive performance and contribute to absenteeism. Chemical intoxication, especially from industrial solvents or pesticides, can range from mild symptoms to long-term organ damage. Musculoskeletal disorders, caused by repetitive movements or poor posture, are prevalent in both physical and sedentary roles.

Other common conditions recognized by labor authorities as work-related illnesses include digital eye strain, burnout, digestive issues, and chronic respiratory problems linked to air quality. These reflect the changing nature of work, especially as technology becomes more central to daily tasks.

For businesses, the rising incidence and complexity of these conditions translate into higher costs, states report. Medical treatment in Mexico has become more expensive due to rising hospital fees, specialist care, advanced diagnostic tools, and long-term therapies. Many employees are compelled to turn to private care, further increasing their financial burden.

According to the 2024 Better Work report, 70% of workers in Mexico feel their benefits packages do not meet their needs. Protection, particularly in the form of health insurance, is identified as the most valued employee benefit and a key driver of retention. But only 30% of workers say that their companies provide tailored benefits.