Distribution of occupational diseases by job position: comparison across two consecutive periods 12 12

Abstract

Introduction. Occupational diseases represent a significant public health issue due to their impact on work capacity, productivity, and social security systems. Their distribution varies according to the risk factors present in each job role; therefore, analyzing them helps strengthen prevention and epidemiological surveillance strategies in occupational health. Objective. To compare the distribution of occupational diseases by job role among workers treated at a Family Medicine Unit during two consecutive periods (January–July 2025 and January–July 2026). Material and methods. An observational, analytical, retrospective, and comparative study was conducted by reviewing records of occupational disease cases confirmed via the ST-9 form. A total of 33 cases were included, covering the periods of January–July 2025 (n = 20) and January–July 2026 (n = 13). Variables such as study period, occupational group, and occupational disease diagnosis were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square test, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results. The Production occupational group accounted for the highest proportion of cases (57.6%), with an increase observed in 2026 (92.3%). Carpal tunnel syndrome was the most frequent diagnosis (24.2%), followed by vertebral disc disorders and rotator cuff syndrome (21.2% each). The most affected anatomical region was the hand and wrist (48.5%). Inferential analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the distribution of occupational diseases between the two periods (χ² = 12.39; df = 5; p = 0.030). Conclusions. Musculoskeletal disorders were the leading cause of occupational disease in the studied population, with a higher concentration of cases among workers in the Production area during the second period analyzed. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening strategies for epidemiological surveillance, ergonomic assessment, and the implementation of preventive programs targeting high-risk occupational groups.