Dr. Zeenath Begum on Contact Dermatitis Among Housemaids and Laundry Workers (Part-2)
In Part-2 of this insightful interview with Sai Vinthiyaa Gopinath of MedBound Times, Dr. Zeenath Begum, MBBS, MD (Dermatology), sheds light on contact dermatitis—particularly among housemaids and laundry workers. Dr. Zeenath Begum completed her MBBS and MD Dermatology from Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Dr. Zeenath shares her clinical expertise on how daily exposure to detergents, dishwashing liquids, and household substances can trigger allergic and irritant dermatitis. From distinguishing between the two forms to understanding the socio-environmental impact, she brings attention to a crucial yet often overlooked occupational health concern.
How often do these workers seek professional care vs. self-medicate or ignore symptoms?
I have often noticed that these workers avoid treatment unless they have symptoms like pain or pus oozing.
What preventive measures should be prior to protect skin health in this group?
The preventive measure is just a trial and error, no one can predict what the allergen is. After exposure to a particular allergen if they develop some rashes or any kind of lesions it's better to stop it and retry after some time.
What are the current best practices in managing chronic or recurrent dermatitis in these patients?
The current best practice is to use gloves while doing the chores which will help them avoid it.
How do you balance treatment efficacy with affordability and accessibility for lower-income workers?
The treatment given to patients with contact dermatitis is affordable and it is not really costly. It is also very easily accessible.
Should employers or households hiring such workers be made aware of occupational dermatitis and how to prevent it?
The employers hiring these workers must be informed and educated about occupational dermatitis from the start.
1. One should avoid stigma as it's a non-communicable disease.
2. Awareness about it will help them know the pain they are suffering, and paid leave could be implemented for rest.
What public health interventions or policies would help reduce contact dermatitis among people in such occupations?
Behind the packages of detergents, liquids, and soaps, a message about cautious use can inform consumers that these products may damage their skin.
Is there a need for dermatological screening programs in this sector?
It is not necessary, as this is a non-infectious and non-communicable disease. When symptoms and signs arise that limit day-to-day activities, individuals will definitely approach doctors, and dermatological screening programs would not change this scenario.
What is the role of education and awareness in reducing incidence or recurrence?
Education not only aids in prevention and incidence but also keeps individuals informed about recent advancements, helping them confront these issues effectively.
MedBound Times extends a heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Zeenath Begum for educating and raising awareness about irritant and allergic Contact Dermatitis.
