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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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.