Occupational disease
Introduction
Occupational disease refers to any chronic ailment that occurs as a result of work or occupational activity. It is an aspect of occupational safety and health. An occupational disease is typically identified when it is shown that it is more prevalent in a given body of workers than in the general population, or in other worker populations. The concept of occupational disease dates back to 1700, when the Italian physician Bernardino Ramazzini identified health risks associated with certain types of work.
Classification
Occupational diseases can be classified into two categories: diseases of occupational origin and diseases of occupational implication. Diseases of occupational origin are caused directly by exposure to harmful agents or conditions in the workplace. Diseases of occupational implication, on the other hand, are conditions that are significantly influenced by work activities but are not necessarily caused by them.
Causes
Occupational diseases can be caused by a variety of factors including chemical agents, physical agents, biological agents, and psychosocial factors.
Chemical Agents
Chemical agents are the main cause of occupational skin diseases and disorders. These include skin diseases such as contact dermatitis, skin cancers, and other skin injuries. Over 13 million workers in the United States are potentially exposed to chemicals that can be absorbed by the skin.
Physical Agents
Physical agents such as noise, vibration, extreme temperatures, and pressure are also significant causes of occupational diseases. For instance, prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to noise-induced hearing loss.
Biological Agents
Biological agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms can also cause occupational diseases. These diseases can be contracted in a variety of work settings, from healthcare facilities to laboratories and from agriculture to forestry.
Psychosocial Factors
Psychosocial factors such as stress, violence, and other forms of workplace harassment can also lead to occupational diseases. These include mental and behavioral disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and musculoskeletal disorders.
Prevention
Prevention of occupational diseases is of paramount importance and involves the identification of risk factors, the assessment of exposure, and the implementation of measures to eliminate or control exposure. This can be achieved through a combination of engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of occupational diseases involves a detailed occupational history, a physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic tests. The occupational history should include information about the jobs held, the duration of employment, the substances the worker has been exposed to, and any protective equipment used.
Treatment
Treatment of occupational diseases involves removing the worker from the source of exposure, providing symptomatic treatment, and preventing further exposure. In some cases, rehabilitation may also be necessary.
Epidemiology
The epidemiology of occupational diseases is complex and varies widely across countries and regions. However, it is estimated that occupational diseases account for a significant proportion of all work-related health problems worldwide.
Legal and Social Aspects
Occupational diseases have significant legal and social implications. Workers who suffer from occupational diseases may be entitled to compensation, and employers may be held liable for failing to protect their workers from harmful exposures.