"The material and psychosocial conditions in which we work have immense consequences for our physical and mental wellbeing, as well as for the distribution of population health. Recessions, job-loss, insecurity, and unemployment also have important ramifications for the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities. Chronic illness is itself a significant cause of worklessness and low pay. Drawing on international research from public health, social policy, epidemiology, geography, and political science, this book systematically demonstrates that work and worklessness are central to our health and wellbeing, and are the underlying determinants of health inequalities" --Back cover.