Factors Associated With Work Productivity Loss Among Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Correlations

Abstract

Background:The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted work environments worldwide, increasing productivity loss through absenteeism and presenteeism. Identifying key associated factors is essential for informing workplace health strategies during public health crises. Methods/Project: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines, using comprehensive searches of seven electronic databases from inception through January 2024. Studies were systematically selected based on predefined eligibility criteria, and 24 studies examining individual and work-related factors associated with work productivity loss were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. Correlation coefficients were synthesized using a random-effects meta-analysis of correlations in STATA 17.0, and heterogeneity was evaluated using the I² statistic and Cochran’s Q test. Findings: Twenty-one factors were analyzed. Job stress, fear of COVID-19, mental health problems, job insecurity, turnover intention, exhaustion, and job demands exhibited moderate positive correlations with productivity loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fear of COVID-19 and mental health problems showed relatively large positive correlations with presenteeism. General health status was the factor most strongly associated with absenteeism, exhibiting a moderate negative correlation. Conclusions/Application to Practice: These findings identify key individual and work-related determinants of productivity loss during pandemics. The results support the development of targeted workplace health promotion, mental health support, and preparedness strategies to mitigate productivity loss during future public health emergencies.