Surveillance of Occupational Diseases: Results for 2009–2017 in the Human Health and Social Work Sector

An analysis of occupational disease data (OCD) for the period 2009–2017 among employees in the human health and social work sector reveals: 1- High prevalence rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among women in this sector, a trend that has been sustained and long-standing, thereby underscoring the need to strengthen prevention efforts in this area; 2- High prevalence rates of irritations or allergies among female employees in human health; 3- Sharply rising prevalence rates of mental distress among female employees in the human health and social services sector. Our analyses reveal contrasting results across socio-professional categories; in particular, women employed in intermediate professions appear to be most affected by MSDs. This justifies conducting future analyses that prioritize a "job-specific" approach. Furthermore, in the context of the health crisis linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heavily impacted workers in the human health sector, continuing the specific monitoring initiated in this report appears relevant and necessary. In terms of prevention, these results should support the implementation of tailored and targeted prevention initiatives within the SH-AS sector. It should be noted that the INRS (National Institute for Research and Safety on the Prevention of Occupational Accidents and Diseases) has developed numerous fact sheets, short films, and other resources intended for professionals in general, or for the SH-AS sector in particular, to reduce exposure to certain risk factors for the development or worsening of MSDs (e.g., assistance with material handling), irritations or allergies (protective equipment), and psychological distress. The results of the analyses conducted on SH-AS employees should thus help support the use of this type of material by local occupational health services.

Author(s): Robert Maëlle, Delezire Pauline, Homere Julie, Garras Loïc, Provost Dorothée, Fernet F, Chatelot Juliette, Boulanger Guillaume

Publishing year: 2021

Pages: 18 p.

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