Occupational dermatoses in the Brazilian South region recorded in a reporting system (2007 to 2016)

Reports of occupational dermatosis in the state of Espírito Santo from 2007 to 2016

INTRODUCTION

Occupational dermatoses account for a large fraction of work-related illnesses, and have significant economic and social repercussions. Though these conditions are subject to mandatory reporting, they are often underdiagnosed, and have only been scarcely studied in Brazil.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the profile of workers affected by occupational dermatosis based on reports sent to the Information System on Notifiable Diseases [Sistema de Informação de Agravos e de Notificação (SINAN)], and provide evidence to support disease prevention initiatives.

METHODS

The following data were collected from incident reports sent in the state of Espírito Santo, from 2007 to 2016: city, year, age of worker, education level, gender, causal agent, race, occupation, lesion site, and need for medical leave. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel, using frequency and percentage statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 340 incidents were reported in the state of Espírito Santo, which most cases (79%) occurring in the city of Atílio Vivácqua. The highest number of cases involved female workers aged 20 to 29 years, with complete primary and incomplete secondary education, in unskilled occupations such as domestic work, and were associated with exposure to chemical agents such as chlorine, detergents, and latex. The lesion site was reported in fewer than 2% of cases. At least 25% of affected workers required medical leave.

CONCLUSIONS

The individuals most frequently affected by occupational dermatosis were women, aged 20 to 29 years, with complete primary education, in unskilled occupations. There is a need for greater investment in the education of unskilled workers, especially those who perform cleaning services.