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Work-related disease in general practice: a systematic review.
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.
Family Practice
|February 16, 2005
Summary
Potentially work-related diseases like back and neck pain are common in general practice. General practitioners (GPs) play a key role in identifying and managing these conditions, as work significantly impacts health.
Area of Science:
- Occupational medicine
- General practice research
- Public health
Background:
- Potentially work-related diseases represent a significant health burden in the general population.
- Understanding the prevalence and incidence of these conditions is crucial for effective healthcare management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of potentially work-related diseases in primary care.
- To assess the incidence of general practitioner (GP) consultations for such conditions.
- To explore the link between work-related illnesses and an individual's work ability.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review adhering to Cochrane standards and QUOROM guidelines.
- Literature search conducted across Medline, Embase, and Osh-rom databases.
- Inclusion of 24 studies from 22 publications meeting predefined criteria.
Main Results:
- High prevalence rates of potentially work-related diseases, particularly low back pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain, were identified in the general practice population.
- Significant incidence rates of GP consultations for work-related health issues were observed.
- Musculoskeletal disorders were the primary reason for work-related consultations, impacting work ability.
Conclusions:
- Work-related diseases are prevalent and frequently encountered in general practice.
- GPs are pivotal in recognizing and managing work-related illnesses.
- Healthcare providers should actively consider occupational factors in patient health assessments, as patients frequently connect their work to their symptoms.