Skin Diseases Among Construction Painters

Abstract

Background and objectives

Occupational exposure is a known risk factor for skin diseases. This study was undertaken to highlight the cutaneous manifestations among construction painters.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Physiology,

1. N. Medical College, Bagalkot, from January 2012 to December 2012. A total of 50 apparently healthy males aged more than 18 years who were exposed directly to chemical substances present in the paint were enrolled in study.

Results

The mean age in study group was 28.52 ± 9.85. The mean duration of painting in study group was 8.49 ± 7.98 years. Cutaneous manifestations were present in five (10%) of the painters that is three (6%) had itching and two had (4%) dry skin.

Interpretation and Conclusion Construction painting workers are at risk of developing skin diseases. Hence precautionary measures should be taken to avoid skin diseases among construction painting workers.