Work-related disease in general practice: a systematic review
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Harm-Jan A Weevers1, Allard J van der Beek, Johannes R Anema
1Department of Public and Occupational Health, Institute for Research in Extramural Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Objectives:
The objective was to answer the following questions: What is the prevalence of potentially work-related diseases in the general practice population? What is the incidence of consulting a GP for a potentially work-related disease? What is the relationship between diseases seen in general practice and work ability?
Methods:
Cochrane standards and QUOROM principals were used. For this systematic review the available literature was identified in a computerized search of the bibliographical databases Medline, Embase and Osh-rom. A total of 22 publications (24 studies) met the inclusion criteria.
Results:
In the general practice population high prevalence rates of potentially work-related diseases were found for low back pain, neck pain and shoulder pain. Incidence rates of consulting a GP for a potentially work-related disease were high also. Musculoskeletal disorders were the main reasons for work-related consultations in general practice. Work-related diseases can affect work ability.
Conclusions:
Work-related diseases are common, given the high incidence and prevalence of potentially work-related diseases found in the general practice population and seen by the GP. This review underlines the important role of GPs in identifying and managing work-related diseases. GPs should consider the work factor and pay special attention to the effects of work on health, because patients often link their work with their illness.
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