ALGORITHM OF PREVENTIVE AND THERAPEUTIC MEASURES FOR WORKERS IN METALWORKING ENTERPRISES
Keywords:
occupational health, preventive strategies, therapeutic algorithm, periodontal disease, hepatobiliary dysfunction, gastrointestinal disorders, metalworking industry.Abstract
Occupational exposure in the metalworking industry encompasses a multifactorial array of hazards, including metal dust, chemical aerosols, elevated temperatures, mechanical vibration, and psychosocial stress. These conditions adversely affect both oral and systemic health, contributing to a higher prevalence of periodontal diseases, dental caries, gastrointestinal disorders, and hepatobiliary dysfunction among industrial employees. The development of a structured, evidence-based algorithm for preventive and therapeutic interventions is critical for mitigating morbidity and enhancing worker health.
This study aimed to design, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive intervention algorithm for employees of metalworking enterprises. A clinical-interventional investigation was conducted among 200 workers aged 20–55 years. Participants were divided into an experimental group (n = 130), directly exposed to occupational hazards, and a control group (n = 70) with minimal exposure. Assessments included oral hygiene indices, periodontal status, liver and gastrointestinal function, and evaluation of occupational exposure.
The proposed algorithm integrates workplace modifications, regular medical and dental monitoring, professional oral hygiene procedures, nutritional optimization, lifestyle counseling, pharmacotherapy, and targeted health education. After six months of application, the experimental group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in plaque and gingival bleeding indices, biochemical liver markers, and reduction of gastrointestinal symptoms compared with baseline and control group measurements (p < 0.05).
The algorithm emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach tailored to the specific conditions of metalworking enterprises. Its adoption offers a practical model for improving occupational health, reducing the incidence of chronic diseases, and enhancing quality of life among industrial workers.
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