Features of registered occupational diseases in Greece: a veil of ignorance

Abstract

Introduction: Background: Under-registration of occupational diseases is a global problem. Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of the reported cases of occupational diseases, in the context of the largest insurance scheme in Greece. Methods: Socio-demographic characteristics related to the identified cases of occupational diseases were collected from the archives of the special medical committee of the Social Insurance Institute (Idrima Koininikon Asfaliseon, IKA) for the year 1999. This year was chosen given that it largely represents the highest number of registered occupational diseases in comparison to the period 2000-2009. Results: Sixty-seven (67) occupational diseases were recognized (3.4 cases/100,000 employees). There were 32 new cases (incidence rate: 1.64/100,000 employees). Occupational skin conditions and diseases of the respiratory system accounted for 85% of all diagnoses. Builders and unskilled blue collar workers were the most frequent occupational groups affected. Conclusions: These findings indicate a high rate of under-registration of occupational diseases in Greece, compared to data from the European Union. This under-registration could be attributed to a variety of limitations related to the current model of occupational health in Greece. The present pattern of registered occupational morbidity reflects the under-development of occupational health in Greece and stresses the need for further and intensified work in order to create modern occupational health services in this country.