Ss29-02 Workers’ Health in Africa From Ancient to Pre-Modern Times – The Little That We Know

Abstract Introduction Not much is known about health in general and occupational health in particular in Africa until modern times, but some evidence can be found especially from indirect sources. Materials and Methods A literature search was conducted to identify studies concerning history of medicine and occupational health in Africa from ancient to pre-modern times. Results There are many schools of medical thought that influenced medicine in Africa in general and probably influenced worker’s health as well, although direct evidence is scarce. The ancient Egyptian medicine, followed by the Greek-Roman medicine, Muslim medicine, European medicine and local African medical traditions, all related to workers’ health as part of the general medical paradigm. The local occupations and medical problems found in Africa contributed to the uniqueness of workers’ health issues. Maimonides, a prominent physician, theologian and philosopher, who lived most of his life in northern Africa, left some remarkable notes concerning occupational health in his medical and responsa (answers to questions posed to rabbinical authorities) writing. Conclusions Africa was influenced by all western medical schools and traditions throughout history. Local occupations, illnesses influencing workers and prominent physicians all had their influence on workers’ health in Africa. Though scarce, evidence for occupational health in Africa from ancient times to pre-modern times exists.