Finland sees sharp regional differences in work ability, researcher cites lifestyle

Finland’s Kainuu region has the country’s highest rate of disability pensions and sickness benefits, with mental health issues and alcohol-related illnesses driving the trend, according to a new national health index.

The work disability index, which tracks disability pensions, long-term sickness benefits, and vocational rehabilitation decisions, reached 137 in Kainuu and North Savo in 2024—well above the national average of 100. The lowest rate was in Western Uusimaa, at 67.

Kati Sarnola, a specialist researcher at Kela, the Social Insurance Institution of Finland, said Kainuu’s high work disability stems from higher overall morbidity, particularly alcohol-related illnesses, smoking, poor diet, and low physical activity. Obesity, she noted, is a growing national health concern and a potential future driver of work disability.

Within Kainuu, Puolanka had the highest work disability index, with women (206) exceeding men (189)—the only municipality in the region where female work disability was higher. In Puolanka, one in four working-age women received sickness benefits in 2024. The lowest indices in Kainuu were in Sotkamo (115) and Kajaani.

Nationally, regional disparities in work disability have widened, with increases in Kainuu and Lapland contrasting with declines in Uusimaa. Sarnola noted that high index figures may reflect not only higher illness rates but also greater use—or need—of social and healthcare services, while low figures could indicate barriers to accessing care.

Mental health disorders, including alcohol-related conditions, remain the leading cause of work disability in Kainuu.