[Morbidity among workers and the organization of occupational medical services in shift-type work]

The specific character of shift labour influences the structure of general morbidity and temporary disability caused by diseases. The most complete information is provided by periodic medical check-ups. In spite of professional selection, 30.2 percent of men and 62.0 percent of women have chronic diseases, 94.3 percent of diseases detected in men and 88.2 percent in women rank among eight classes of diseases, the most prevalent being diseases of respiratory and circulatory system. The relationship between morbidity, age, occupation and length of shift work is found. The specificity of health care delivery for shift workers is analyzed and ways of improvement are suggested.