Examines health effects of robot adoption in China’s workforce, suggesting the need for better protection.
Objective: To examine how robot adoption affects workers’ health in China. Methods: Using China Family Panel Studies data matched with regional robot penetration measures, we estimate health effects with regression models and explore heterogeneity and mechanisms. Results: Robot adoption significantly reduces perceived, diagnosed, and mental health among manufacturing workers. In contrast, effects in non-manufacturing sectors differ. Health impacts vary across worker groups, reflecting heterogeneous exposure and labor market adjustment. Conclusions: Robot adoption may generate adverse health effects through labor displacement and reduced bargaining power. Strengthening social protection and skill training is essential to mitigate health risks associated with technological change.
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Wubin Yuan (2026) studied this question.
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