It’s Labor Day once again, reminding us that we cannot lose sight of the importance of preventing occupational diseases and injuries.
The State of Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Commission has released its annual report on occupational diseases, offering an in-depth look at workplace-related illnesses reported in the latest available data from 2023.
The annual report, prepared by Professor Emeritus Tim Morse, Ph.D., of UConn School of Medicine and UConn Health, draws on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics/Connecticut Department of Labor (BLS/CTDOL), physician reports through the Occupational Illness and Injury Surveillance System (OIISS), and Workers’ Compensation First Reports of Injury (WCC).
The total estimated number of occupational disease cases in Connecticut for 2023 was 31,016. This statistic was obtained after matching cases reported to both workers’ compensation and physician systems, and estimating unreported cases through capture-recapture analysis.
The latest 2023 data shows:
- 3,500 occupational disease cases estimated by the BLS/CTDOL annual survey.
- 5,188 cases reported through Workers’ Compensation First Reports of Injury.
- 2,263 cases reported by physicians through the OIISS.
- 7,104 unique cases reported by either Workers’ Compensation or physicians.
Musculoskeletal disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis were the most common category, accounting for 49% of workers’ compensation reports and 26% of physician reports. Infectious diseases—including exposures to bloodborne pathogens—were the second largest category, representing 22% of workers’ compensation reports and 41% of physician reports. While COVID-19 reports fell sharply from 1,851 cases in 2022 to 164 in 2023, other infectious diseases and respiratory conditions saw significant increases.
“Occupational diseases often develop gradually and can be difficult to recognize, making comprehensive data collection essential for prevention,” says Morse. “This year’s data highlights both the progress made in reducing COVID-19-related cases and the continuing need to address persistent workplace hazards such as musculoskeletal disorders and exposures to infectious agents.”
“This report is an important tool for improving workplace safety across Connecticut,” says Stephen M. Morelli, chairperson of the Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Commission. “By identifying trends and high-risk industries, we can work with employers, employees, and health professionals to reduce occupational illnesses and create safer work environments for everyone.”
The full 2025 Occupational Disease in Connecticut report, available through the UConn Health website, includes detailed tables and charts by industry sector, illness type, and municipality, along with historical trends and prevention recommendations.
