INDIA: Mumbai-based MedSea, an International SOS company, has revealed four important trends in seafarer health. The medical team analyzed case data for 2023 so far to help make predictions for the months ahead, during the colder months of the northern hemisphere winter. Seafarers are often exposed to many occupational risk factors and face tough and harsh working conditions, which can lead to various physical diseases and mental illnesses.
Dr Katherine Sinclaire, Senior Medical Advisor at MedSea, comments “Promoting the health and wellbeing of seafarers is of paramount importance, not only for their individual welfare but also for the safety and efficiency of maritime operations. We encourage seafarers to call us regardless of their situation. This is not only to help mitigate the risks of a worsening medical situation but to also collect data and help us to better understand how to address the types of health conditions and medical needs onboard.”
The four key trends identified by MedSea include an increase in dental health cases, the need for protection from COVID-19 and other viruses, addressing gastrointestinal challenges and norovirus outbreaks on board, and promoting a culture of healthy lifestyle among seafarers. Dental issues have always seen high case volumes, but it represents an increase year on year. Poor dental hygiene may be linked to other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Ship owners should consider COVID-19 boosters and flu vaccinations where possible for their seafarers at risk, to minimize the potential for illness at sea and operational impact. Gastrointestinal issues are also common among seafarers due to prolonged periods at sea, irregular working hours, and limited access to fresh and nutritious food. Noroviruses are often associated with the maritime industry, and shipowners should implement stringent sanitation measures to prevent outbreaks on board.
Encouraging healthy eating habits, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and preventing alcohol abuse among seafarers can have far-reaching benefits. A balanced diet ensures seafarers receive essential nutrients needed for optimal physical and mental performance during lengthy trips at sea. Smoking cessation reduces the risk of tobacco-related diseases and improves respiratory health, which is vital for those working in confined spaces. Addressing alcohol abuse not only enhances seafarers’ health but also mitigates the risk of accidents, ensuring a healthier and safer maritime environment.
Dr Sinclaire added “A key part of our role as medical professionals is to use this data to promote health at sea. We always want to minimize any unnecessary discomfort to seafarers, especially when shoreside medical assistance is days away, so we aim to prevent and educate wherever we can.”
MedSea encourages seafarers to call them regardless of their situation to help mitigate the risks of a worsening medical situation and to collect data to better understand how to address the types of health conditions and medical needs onboard.
