Skin health. the contribution of occupational health to dermato-oncology
G. Viti, C. Forcella, N. Magnavita
Introduction & Objectives
Occupational health calls for integrating prevention, that is early detection of occupational diseases with health promotion. Workers who are exposed to occupational hazards are subjected to workplace examinations and assessments. In Italy, more than 10 million workers are compulsorily examined by a doctor every year. Only a small proportion of these workers are exposed to chemical pollutants recognized as harmful to the skin and are routinely examined by a dermatologist, while others are seen by an occupational physician. However, sunlight and artificial ultraviolet exposure and exposure to arsenic in drinking water are widespread. Periodic medical examinations in the workplace could be an opportunity for skin cancer screening.
Materials & Methods
Workers summoned for mandatory medical examination underwent skin inspection for identification of suspicious skin changes. Suspect cases were invited for specialized investigations and possible treatment under the National Health Service.
Results
Screening has identified cases of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. The skin examination was an opportunity for the occupational physician to disseminate knowledge on promoting skin hygiene.
Conclusion
If the occupational physician includes an examination of the skin in the worker’s routine examination, he or she or it has a chance to identify suspected skin diseases, increasing skin cancer awareness. Skin examination does not overburden the occupational physician and provides undeniable public health benefits.
Giacomo Viti