Occupational disease

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 first such disease to be recognised, Pneumoconiosis, was identified by Hippocrates.

Definition

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines occupational disease as "any disease contracted primarily as a result of an exposure to risk factors arising from work activity". Work-related diseases, on the other hand, have multiple causes, where factors in the work environment may play a role, together with other risk factors, in the development of such diseases.

Types of Occupational Diseases

Occupational diseases can be categorized into two types: Occupational lung diseases and Occupational skin diseases.

Occupational Lung Diseases

These are a group of disorders, most of which are caused by the inhalation of various forms of dust in the workplace. The most common diseases include Silicosis, Asbestosis, and Coal worker's pneumoconiosis (also known as Black Lung Disease).

Occupational Skin Diseases

These are skin ailments that occur as a result of work or occupational activity. They include Contact Dermatitis, Skin Cancer, and Chronic Skin Conditions such as eczema.

Prevention

Prevention of occupational disease is most effective when measures are implemented at the site where the disease is occurring. This can include the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, and regular health and safety training.

See Also

• Occupational Safety and Health
• Industrial Hygiene
• Occupational Medicine