00699 - Occupational Medicine

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will acquire knowledge, with particular reference to the productive activities of the territory (including healthcare), regarding:

- The clinical aspects of diseases caused, favored, or aggravated by work and their prevention.
- Occupational injuries.
- Occupational hygiene and toxicology.
- Ergonomics.
- Psychosocial risk factors.
- Factors that promote the maintenance of work capacity.
- Work as a means of promoting health.

Course contents

Introduction and General Principles of the Discipline

Introduction to Occupational Medicine
- Fundamentals and Objectives: Overview of the key principles and goals of the discipline.

Legislative Framework
- Regulatory References: Key regulations and the role of the occupational physician.
- Classification of Occupational Risk Factors: Analysis of physical, chemical, biological, and psychosocial risks.

Main Occupational Diseases

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders: Conditions and illnesses related to work activities.
2. Occupational Hearing Loss: Effects of noise on the auditory system and extra-auditory consequences.
3. Respiratory Diseases: Pneumoconiosis, interstitial lung diseases, and obstructive pulmonary conditions.
4. Skin Diseases: Acute and chronic dermatitis, photosensitivity, and other skin disorders.
5. Occupational Cancers: Cancers linked to occupational exposure (lung, pleura, bladder, etc.).

 Toxicology and Industrial Hygiene

- Introduction to Toxicology and Industrial Hygiene: Key concepts and their applications.
- Metal Toxicity: Effects of arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, and nickel.
- Solvent Toxicity: Risks associated with aromatic hydrocarbons and alcohols.
- Pesticide Toxicity: Classification and health impacts.

Reproductive Health and Work

-Work, Fertility, and Pregnancy: The impact of work on reproductive health.
- Endocrine Disruptors: Associated risks and preventive measures.

Work in Healthcare and Psychosocial Factors

- Occupational Medicine in Healthcare Settings: Specific challenges and considerations.
- Psychosocial Risk Factors: Evaluation of work-related stress and its health consequences.

Specific Topics

- Protection of Pregnancy in the Workplace: Regulatory references and best practices.
- Role of the Occupational Physician: Legal aspects concerning workplace injuries and occupational diseases.

Readings/Bibliography

-Mutti A. and Corradi M. Lezioni di Medicina del Lavoro. Nuova Editrice Berti, 2021

- LaDou J and Harrison R. Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Occupational and Environmental Medicine. McGraw-Hill Education, 2021

Teaching methods

The course will employ a combination of:

• Lectures: Engaging presentations to introduce and explain key concepts.
• Class Discussions: Interactive sessions to facilitate dialogue and deepen understanding of topics.
• Supporting Materials: Use of slides, videos, and handouts to enhance learning and provide visual context.

This approach aims to create an interactive and comprehensive learning environment for all students.

Assessment methods

The assessment will consist of a written exam featuring multiple-choice questions. The evaluation will focus on the topics outlined in the "Program and Content" section, ensuring that students demonstrate their understanding of the key concepts covered throughout the course.

Teaching tools

If necessary, materials will be distributed directly or made available on the university website. Students who, due to disabilities or specific learning disorders (SLD), require compensatory tools are encouraged to inform the instructor as soon as possible about their needs, so that appropriate accommodations can be arranged whenever feasible.

Office hours

See the website of Angela Gambelunghe