Occupational dermatoses reported in Brazil from 2007 to 2014

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Dermatology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Occupational diseases, particularly dermatoses, are prevalent globally, especially in developing nations.
• Epidemiological data on occupational skin diseases in Brazil is notably scarce.
• This study addresses the need for comprehensive data on work-related skin conditions in Brazil.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and patterns of occupational skin diseases in Brazil.
• To describe the sociodemographic and occupational characteristics of affected workers.
• To identify common causative agents and affected body areas in occupational dermatoses.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of data from Brazil's Notifiable Diseases Information System (2007-2014).
• Inclusion of all notified cases of occupational dermatoses (n=4710) using intentional non-probability sampling.
• Data tabulation and analysis using the TabWin12 program.

Main Results:

• The most affected demographic was males aged 35-49 years.
• Upper limbs (34.2%) and hands (25.4%) were the most commonly affected body areas.
• Significant data gaps were observed, with 'causative agent' missing in 69.4% of cases; chrome was the most reported agent (11.8%).
• ICD-10 codes L23, L24, L25 were most prevalent (34.2%); 29% of patients required sick leave, with minimal cases of death or permanent disability.

Conclusions:

• Significant data completeness issues were identified in the reporting system.
• Delayed diagnosis of occupational dermatoses leads to considerable social and financial repercussions for workers.
• Effective management requires identifying and removing causative agents and prompt diagnosis to mitigate negative impacts.