Biomarkers and long-term labour market outcomes: the case of creatine

Abstract

<div> Using the Young Finns Study (YFS) combined with the Finnish Linked Employer-Employee</div> <div> Data (FLEED) we show that quantities of creatine measured in 1980 prior to labour market</div> <div> entry affect labour market outcomes over the period 1990-2010. Those with higher levels of</div> <div> creatine (proxied by urine creatinine) prior to labour market entry spend more time in the</div> <div> labour market in the subsequent two decades and earn more. Creatine is not associated with</div> <div> high educational attainment. The associations between creatine and labour market outcomes</div> <div> are robust to controlling for other biomarkers, educational attainment and parental</div> <div> background. Creatine is a naturally occurring nitrogenous organic acid which supplies energy</div> <div> to body cells, including muscles. Our findings are consistent with high energy levels, induced</div> <div> by creatine, leading to productivity-enhancing traits such as a high propensity for effort,</div> <div> perseverance, and high-commitment.</div>