The ever increasing incidences of occupational diseases among workers have continually
drawn the attention of researchers towards ameliorating the situation. Investigation was
launched to assess occupational diseases among artisans and factory workers in Ifo,
Nigeria. Structured questionnaires with oral interview were employed to complement the
health records of the respondents at the Government accredited health center. Of the one
hundred and fifty six (156) respondents, ninety six (62%) are males and sixty one (38%)
female, sixty one point fifty four percent (61.54%) are youths of age 20 to 39 years, fifty
one (32.69%) are illiterates and one hundred and eight (69.21%) earn N100, 000 ($615)
and below as monthly wages. The diseases prevalent in these workers were evaluated to
include but not limited to disorders of muscles, bones, joints, skin and the respiratory
organs indicating that most of the jobs are such that causes damages to these special
parts of the body and could lead to deformities/incapacitation in old age. Common
amongst these diseases are Pre-patellar bursitis and Eczema (1.92% each),
Tuberculosis, Asthma and Sunburn (5.77% each). Toxic/inflammatory syndrome, hearing
impairment, allergies and computer vision syndrome (7.69% each). Two (1.28% in each
case) have been diagnosed of Lead poisoning, Lung cancer, Carpal tunnel syndrome,
Pulmonary fibrosis, Meniscus lesion and Olecranon bursitis. Upper airway disorders (4.49%), Irritations (3.21%), Post-traumatic stress syndrome (11.54%), skin allergies
(13.46%). Chronic bronchitis; Pneumonia; Pneumoconiosis; Hepatitis and Anthrax-like
infection (0.64 % each). The causes of these diseases/disorders include dusts from
quarry, textile, cotton, metal, paper, mineral, wood, cereals, cement, and chemical fumes
industries, extreme posture of wrist, repetitive movements, inhalations from petrol fuel,
prolonged pressure of the elbow region, prolonged kneeling/ squatting position, forceful
exertions and microorganisms. Adequate occupational health and safety awareness
through training and campaign should be provided. The use of personal protective
equipment among workers should also be encouraged.