Life on sea is difficult for seafarers as they are separated from the comforts of a life lived on land, a life constantly enveloped in the care and affection of their loved ones. Life on sea is, indeed, hard even without factors that jeopardize the comfort and well-being of these heroes – factors like diseases and infections due to the nature of their work.
It is, no doubt, helpful for seafarers to be aware of the diseases that are lurking in every corner of the sea. As they say, prevention is always better than the cure. The following are some of the diseases and infections that most seafarers acquire during their journey.
Hypertension. Due to excessive stress, homesickness, smoking, lack of exercise or workout, over consumption of alcohol and fatigue, hypertension is one of the major danger seafarers get working on board. Seafarers should also remember that hypertension can lead to renal failure and stroke. Good eating habits, engaging in physical activities and healthy lifestyle can help prevent hypertension.
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome or HAVS. Some seafarers operate equipment that cause this syndrome, like needle guns and grinders. Prolonged exposure to power tools with the lack of proper usage and limits of use may result to HAVS, which will lead to permanent disability if not detected and treated early. Tingling of fingers, numbness and pain in the arm and wrist are some of the common symptoms of HAVS.
Pandemic and Epidemic Diseases. Since seafarers docked on many different ports around the world on the course of their journey, they are vulnerable to common diseases like cholera, malaria, tuberculosis, yellow fever and others. Despite having shots for vaccine, sudden outbreak of new diseases will make seafarers susceptible.
Cardio-Vascular Disease or CVD. High-stress levels are common cause of cardio-vascular diseases, commonly found in seafaring community. Together with factors like genes, age, unhealthy lifestyle, added with the condition on board that contributes to stress like multi-tasking and lack of exercise, any seafarer is prone to CVD.
Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD). Unsafe sexual activities of seafarers make them a victim of fatal diseases like HIV/AIDS, and gonorrhea or syphilis. Seafarers should be aware of STDs so they can practice self-discipline and control to minimize the and prevent the risk of transmission, which can give a big impact both on their professional and personal life.
Musculoskeletal Disorder or MSD. MSD are injuries or pain on our body’s joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves, tendons and structures that supports our limbs, neck and back. Seafarers acquire MSD because of sudden lifting of heavy object and from making repetitive action. Exercise and stretching can prevent MSD among seafarers, as most of them do straight 12 hours duty onboard.
Cancer. Seafarers with various cases of cancers have increased in numbers, most of them with lung cancer, renal cancer, leukemia and lymphoma. Continuous exposure to UV radiation, toxic substances, and smoking among others make seafarers
unsafe. Seafarers working on oil, chemical and product tankers are also likely to develop various types of cancer, brain cancer and leukemia at the most.
Seafarers and aspiring seamen need not be afraid of these diseases and infections, however. With proper exercise, a healthy lifestyle and a well-balanced diet, these complications will be far from being acquired. Life will be as easy and comfortable on sea as it is on land.
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