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Occupational skin diseases in Korea
1Department of Occupational Medicine, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea.
Journal of Korean Medical Science
|January 25, 2011
Summary
Occupational skin diseases are common but underreported in Korea due to diagnostic challenges. Continuous surveillance and targeted policies are recommended to protect high-risk workers.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Dermatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Skin diseases are the most prevalent occupational illnesses, yet often underdiagnosed and underreported in South Korea.
- Historical data indicates a significant number of cases, but official statistics have been inconsistent over time.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and analyze the available statistics and data on occupational skin diseases in Korea.
- To highlight trends, challenges in reporting, and specific case examples.
- To emphasize the ongoing importance of occupational skin disease surveillance and policy development.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of official statistics from employee medical check-ups and the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA).
- Review of epidemiological surveys and published scientific case reports.
- Examination of compensated occupational skin disease data.
Main Results:
- From 1999 to 2007, 301 cases of occupational skin disease were reported by KOSHA.
- Historically, 2,222 cases were reported by 1981, representing 4.9% of all occupational diseases.
- Recent data indicates compensated cases often involve daily-paid public service and forestry workers, with notable cases including vitiligo and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.
Conclusions:
- Occupational skin diseases remain a significant health concern in Korea despite reporting difficulties.
- A robust and continuous surveillance system is crucial for accurately assessing the status of these diseases.
- Policies should be developed to protect vulnerable high-risk occupational groups.
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