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- Original article Occupational Diseases in Mongolia: A Retrospective Analysis (1975–2023) with a 30-Year Trend Study
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Sansartsetseg Tsendjav1
, Myagmarchuluun Sainnyambuu1
, Otgonbayar Damdinbazar3
, Ulzii-Orshikh Ragchaabazar4, Gantugs Yundendorj2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2026.38.e12 [Accepted]
Published online: March 24, 2026
1Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
2Department of Health Policy, School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
3Division for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
4Occupational Health and Safety Center, Occupational Medical Hospital, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
2Department of Health Policy, School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
3Division for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
4Occupational Health and Safety Center, Occupational Medical Hospital, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
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Corresponding author:
Gantugs Yundendorj,
Email: gantugs@mnums.edu.mn
Received: 25 January 2026 • Revised: 19 March 2026 • Accepted: 20 March 2026
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Abstract
Background
Occupational diseases represent a significant global public health challenge, yet reliable data from transitioning economies remain limited. This study aimed to analyze newly confirmed occupational disease cases in Mongolia over a 50-year period (1975–2023), identifying long-term trends and the prevalence of leading disease categories.
Methods
A retrospective, record-based study was conducted using quantitative data from 10,233 officially confirmed and compensated cases of occupational diseases resulting in an officially certified loss of labor capacity. Incidence rates per 100,000 workers were calculated for the 1992–2023 period. Leading diseases were classified by organ system, with focused analyses on respiratory diseases, occupational poisonings, and neurological disorders.
Results
Dust- and particulate-induced respiratory diseases accounted for the largest proportion of cases (57.3%), followed by occupational neurological disorders (16.2%) and occupational poisonings (7.9%). From 1992 to 2023, incidence rates among male workers were consistently 3–7 times higher than those among female workers. Analysis of exposure duration showed mean durations of 13.6 ± 4.9 years for silicosis (J62) and 20.7 ± 10.7 years for inorganic substance poisoning (T52). While respiratory diseases predominant historically, cases of occupational neurological diseases increased 1.9-fold after 2015.
Conclusions
Occupational neurological disorders are showing an increasing trend in Mongolia, reflecting a shift in the national occupational disease pattern. However, as the registry is based on the national compensation framework, these findings likely reflect recognized cases rather than the true epidemiological incidence, suggesting potential underreporting. Strengthening surveillance beyond the compensation system and improving diagnostic capacity for a broader range of work-related conditions are essential for effective prevention and policy development.
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