On World Maritime Day, International SOS and MedSea, a leading maritime health and safety provider, released new guidelines for organizations to effectively manage chronic conditions among seafarers.
“Safety in the maritime industry often focuses on preventing accidents and injuries,” said Anuj Velankar, General Manager at MedSea. “However, chronic conditions can also pose significant risks to seafarers’ health and safety.”
According to MedSea’s data, hypertension is the most common chronic condition among seafarers, followed by diabetes, high cholesterol, and gout. These conditions can lead to complications and medical emergencies if not managed properly.
Dr. Katherine Sinclaire, Senior Medical Advisor at MedSea, emphasized the importance of proactive measures to support seafarers with chronic conditions. “By providing regular health check-ups, health education, and access to necessary medical resources, organizations can help seafarers manage their conditions effectively and reduce the risk of safety incidents.”
Key Recommendations from MedSea:
- Pre-employment Medical Examinations (PEMEs): Conduct thorough PEMEs to identify underlying health conditions and ensure seafarers are fit for duty.
- Support for Seafarers with Chronic Conditions: Develop programs that encourage open communication about chronic conditions and provide necessary support.
- Promote Healthy Lifestyles: Encourage healthy eating, regular exercise, and tobacco avoidance.
- Adherence to Medical Treatment: Ensure seafarers follow prescribed medical treatments and attend regular check-ups.
- Early Intervention: Address any changes in a seafarer’s health condition promptly to prevent serious complications.
By implementing these guidelines, organizations can create a safer and healthier working environment for seafarers.
For more information on managing chronic conditions onboard and to register for MedSea’s webinar on healthy eating
To find out more about how to safely manage chronic conditions onboard, contact us here | MedSea will also be hosting a webinar on Thursday, 26 September on healthy eating – sign up here.
