The incidence of occupational skin disease as reported to The Health and Occupation Reporting (THOR) network between 2002 and 2005

Abstract

Background: Estimated incidence rates for occupational skin disease in the U.K. are provided by voluntary surveillance schemes involving dermatologists and occupational physicians. These rates allow monitoring of occupational dermatoses, and intervention planning aimed at reducing workplace risks.

Objectives: To summarize occupational skin disease reported to The Health and Occupation Reporting (THOR) network (2002-2005), and to provide baseline information for comparison with future studies of occupational skin disease in the U.K. and beyond.

Methods: Incidence rates for occupational dermatoses were calculated using THOR data as numerators, and Labour Force Survey data or information from the most recent U.K. survey on provision of occupational physician services as denominators.

Results: In the U.K. (2002-2005) the average annual incidence rate of work-related skin disease reported to THOR by dermatologists was 91.3 [95% confidence interval (CI) 81.8-101.1] per million, and by occupational physicians was 316.6 (95% CI 251.8-381.3) per million. Most reports were of contact dermatitis: dermatologists 68.0 (95% CI 59.8-76.2) per million, occupational physicians 259.7 (95% CI 200.8-318.6) per million.

Conclusions: Information produced by THOR is an important source for calculating incidence rates of occupational skin disease. A range of reporting groups should also be used when building an overall picture of occupational skin disease incidence in the U.K.