Occupational diseases

Occupational Diseases refer to health conditions or disorders, including occupational injuries, resulting from exposure to risk factors arising from work-related activities. They are often chronic ailments that occur as a result of long-term exposure to certain risks at a person's workplace.

Definition

An Occupational Disease is defined as a disease contracted primarily as a result of an exposure to risk factors arising from work activity. These diseases can lead to decreased productivity, disability, or even death, and are a significant contributor to the global burden of disease.

Types of Occupational Diseases

Occupational diseases can be categorized into several types, including:

• Respiratory Diseases: These include diseases like silicosis, asbestosis, and occupational asthma which are caused by inhaling harmful substances at work.
• Skin Diseases: Occupational skin diseases such as contact dermatitis, skin cancers, and other skin injuries are common types of occupational diseases.
• Musculoskeletal Disorders: These include conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and musculoskeletal disorders that are caused by repetitive movements, vibrations, and forceful exertions.
• Occupational Cancers: Certain types of cancers can be caused by exposure to specific carcinogens at the workplace. These include lung cancer, mesothelioma, and bladder cancer.

Prevention

Prevention of occupational diseases involves identifying and controlling the risk factors that cause them. This can be achieved through:

• Risk Assessment: Identifying the hazards present in a workplace and assessing the risks associated with them.
• Risk Management: Implementing measures to control identified risks.
• Health Surveillance: Monitoring the health of workers to detect early signs of disease.

See Also

• Occupational Safety and Health
• Occupational Toxicology
• Industrial Hygiene
• Workplace Health Surveillance