The farming population in Ireland: mortality trends during the 'Celtic Tiger' years

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Abstract
Background Although the Irish farming population is a significant occupational group, analysis of their mortality patterns is limited. This study compared mortality trends with other occupational groups and assessed the impact of socio-economic factors. Methods Population and mortality data (2000–06) were obtained to calculate standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) by cause of death and matched with socio-economic data. The extent to which variation in mortality was explained by variations in the socio-economic data was determined using multiple regression. Results Farmers and agricultural workers experienced the highest levels of mortality for all causes of death (2000–06). Farmers are 5.14 times more likely and agricultural workers are 7.35 times more likely to die from any cause of death than the lowest risk group. Circulatory disease is a significant cause of mortality among farmers [SMR = 215.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 201.83–229.98]. Other significant causes include cancers (SMR = 156.60, CI = 146.73–166.48) and injuries and poisonings (SMR = 149.69, CI = 135.44–163.93). Agricultural workers have similar mortality trends: circulatory disease (SMR = 226.27; CI = 192.45–260.08), cancers (SMR = 221.44; CI = 193.88–249.00), and injuries and poisonings (SMR = 353.90; CI = 302.48–405.32). From 2000 to 2006, SMRs increased incrementally. Multiple regression identified farm size and income poverty risk as predictors of mortality. Conclusion Irish farmers and agricultural workers have experienced a reversal of mortality trends compared to the 1980s and 1990s. Policies should target them as a high-risk group.

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