The recognition and control of occupational disease

Article Abstract:

Americans spend much of their time at work, and there is considerable evidence that exposure to chemicals and processes in the workplace are responsible for much illness and death. It is estimated that between 50,000 and 70,000 deaths occur each year as a result of occupational disease and that occupational disease accounts for an additional 350,000 cases of illness each year. (These numbers do not include the workers who are injured as the result of traumatic accidents.) It is therefore extremely important for practicing physicians to be able to recognize the types of diseases that can result from hazards in the workplace. In many cases, cancer may be an occupational disease. Many chemical substances are potential carcinogens, and when faced with a newly diagnosed case of cancer a physician should inquire about possible hazards on the job. Occupational lung disease may result from pneumoconiosis of any sort. Pneumoconiosis is the accumulation in the lungs of any type of particulate matter. Asbestosis is pneumoconiosis due to asbestos particles; silicosis is an accumulation of silica, the primary constituent of sand and many other minerals. Coal miners' pneumoconiosis, often called 'black lung', results from exposure to coal dust. Lung disease may also develop in the form of asthma; repeated exposure, most often to animal and plant products, may cause sensitization, and ultimately asthma. Over time, episodes of asthma may result in obstructive lung disease. A few substances, such as lead, manganese, and some pesticides, are known to produce both neurologic and psychiatric disease. However, the full range of neurologic and psychiatric disorders that might result from exposure in the workplace is not known. One of the most effective weapons in the battle against occupational disease is taking a complete medical history, which includes both the present occupation of the patient and any occupations in the past. This information is critical for properly diagnosing occupational disease. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Prevention

---

Work-related cumulative trauma disorders of the upper extremity

Article Abstract:

Workers that perform repetitive tasks using their hands and arms may be at risk for developing cumulative trauma disorders (CTD). CTDs are musculoskeletal disorders that result from tissue damage accumulating over time. Individuals in certain occupations, such as meat packers, electricians and those using computer keyboards, have a higher risk of developing certain CTDs than the general population. Physicians who diagnose individuals with CTDs should determine the degree to which the disorder is work-related, and recommend job modifications. Common CTDs include localized muscle fatigue, tendon-related disorders such as tendonitis, nerve entrapment syndromes, carpal tunnel syndrome and hand-arm vibration syndrome. Patients with CTDs should rest and apply ice to the affected body part, and immobilize the appropriate joint. Some CTD patients undergo surgery; others receive exercise and vitamin therapy. To prevent occupational CTDs, employers should identify CTD risk factors and modify work tasks and work stations to minimize these risks.

Health aspects, Repetition strain injury, Cumulative trauma disorders, Work, Work (Labor), Workers

---

Illness in Gulf War veterans: causes and consequences

Article Abstract:

Recent studies add to the growing evidence that many Gulf War veterans are experiencing real, sometimes disabling, illnesses. Two recent reports grouped symptoms of neurologic impairment into three major syndromes. These syndromes were both compatible with and associated with exposure to nerve toxic chemicals. A third study revealed that Gulf War veterans were more likely to experience debilitating physical and mental symptoms compared with contemporaries not assigned to the Persian Gulf. Doctors should be prepared to offer support and treat symptoms regardless of whether the cause seems to be toxic exposure or stress.

Editorial, Case studies, Diseases, Nervous system, Neurologic manifestations of general diseases, Neurologic manifestations, Persian Gulf War veterans, Persian Gulf syndrome

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Tracheobronchial foreign bodies in adults. Barrett esophagus: a sequela of chemotherapy. Bay leaf impaction in the esophagus and hypopharynx
• Abstracts: Relation between rectal sensation and anal function in normal subjects and patients with faecal incontinence. Changes in rectal sensitivity after hypnotherapy in patients with irritable bowel syndrome
• Abstracts: Tracheal resection and reconstruction: indications, surgical procedure, and postoperative care. Differential effects of continuous versus intermittent suction on tracheal tissue
• Abstracts: Geriatric medicine. Acute renutrition by cyclic enteral nutrition in elderly and younger patients
• Abstracts: Obstetrics and gynecology. Coronary heart disease incidence, by sex. Obstetrics and Gynecology

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.