A study commissioned by the ILO

Strategy and implementation of the programme for the prevention and control of pneumoconiosis in Thailand

Pneumoconiosis is one of the most prevalent occupational diseases in Thailand. The most common forms of the disease are silicosis and asbestosis, and other asbestos-related diseases. The aims of the study are to review the situation of these diseases and describe national strategic and action plans to prevent and control them.

The study shows that silicosis and asbestos-related diseases are the major occupational health problems in Thailand. The Ministry of Public Health has taken steps to prevent and control the diseases by setting up and implementing strategies and action plans, encompassing policy development, law enforcement, the provision of occupational health services, disease surveillance and the empowerment of health officers. In addition, the study shows that the capacity building of physicians in chest X-ray reading for pneumoconiosis is very important to improve diagnosis of silicosis and asbestos-related diseases. Lastly, strong collaboration between national organizations and international agencies is needed to implement the action plans efficiently.