Occupational medicine is that branch of medicine concerned
with the prevention and treatment of diseases and accidental injuries caused
to workers while at work. Occupational medicine also deals with the promotion
of health and safety at work.
Of all medical specialties, this branch is probably
considered the most wide-ranging discipline. Occupational medicine is a
comprehensive field that includes principles and practices from toxicology,
preventive medicine, epidemiology, industrial hygiene, and clinical medicine.
Occupational illnesses are generally categorized into
physical work hazards, chemical work hazards, biological work hazards, and
ergonomic work hazards. Air pollution, dust, allergens, asbestos, noise, and
radiation within the workplace can cause health-related complaints, which
require proper care and attention.
Occupational disorders are mainly caused due to the working
conditions or the environment. Common occupational diseases include asthma,
latex allergy, nervous system problems, silicosis, carpal tunnel syndrome,
tendonitis, hearing loss, skin disorders, asbestosis, gastrointestinal
disorders, sexual and reproductive problems, lung diseases including chronic
pulmonary disorders, and cancer including leukemia and mesothelioma.
When a person sustains sudden injuries or illness at the
workplace, a referral to a specialist familiar in handling occupational
medicine is necessary. Medical doctors providing care for injured workers are
called occupational medicine specialists. He/she must have in-depth knowledge
in clinical medicine and preventive medicine.
Laboratory testing, drug screenings and exercise tolerance
testing are some diagnostic procedures and tests performed by occupational
medicine specialists. The specialists conduct several medical screening and
surveillance programs including respirator fitness surveillance, hazardous
materials surveillance, and asbestos screening for prevention and detection of
occupational disorders. They also recommend immunization programs.
Social workers and
industrial hygienists also have a major role to play in the field of
occupational medicine.
