Injuries and diseases among commercial fishermen in the Northeast Atlantic and Barents Sea. Data from the Royal Norwegian Coast Guard.

OBJECTIVES: The working conditions in the Northeast Atlantic may be hazardous, and accidents are frequent. The objective of this study was to clarify the situation as viewed by the Royal Norwegian Coast Guard (RNCG). METHODS: Consecutive reports on medical assistance given by the three major RNCG vessels from October 1995 and March 2001 were analysed. RESULTS: There were 117 reports. Men constituted 96%, and 54% were Norwegians. The median age was 38 years. Seriousness was classified as low (46 cases), moderate (43 cases), serious (22 cases) and life threatening [five cases (two died)]. Infection caused 27 visits. Fifty-five cases were due to trauma, and hand injuries constituted 19 cases. Fishermen over 40 years of age were more severely injured ( P<0.04). In 52 cases, the RNCG personnel requested further medical advice. Sixty-one patients were hospitalised and 48 transported by helicopter. CONCLUSIONS: The RNCG offers an important medical service, but there is frequently a need for consulting medical advisors. Telemedicine should be investigated in this setting.