Occupational Contact Dermatitis Amongst Health Care Worker in a Tertiary Hospital, Northern Tanzania

Background. Occupational contact dermatitis (OCD) is a significant occupational health concern among healthcare workers (HCWs) due to frequent exposure to irritants and allergens, impacting their quality of life and work performance. Objective. The study aimed to determine the prevalence, clinical presentation, sensitization profile and associated factors of OCD among HCWs in a tertiary hospital, Northern Tanzania. Methodology. A cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2025 to May 2025 at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC). A total of 368 HCWs were screened using a pre-tested, validated, interview questionnaire adapted from Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (NOSQ-2002). Patch test baseline series was done for participants with occupational contact dermatitis. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28. Results. A 12- month prevalence of OCD was 25.5%. The most common clinical presentations of self-reported skin symptoms were dry skin with scaling (67.0%), itching (35.1%), and papules (18.1%). Factors significantly associated with OCD included frequent hand washing, occasional moisturizer use, and history of allergy. The most frequent patch test positive reactions were nickel (26.1%) followed by methyl dibromo glutaronitrile, and fragrance mix II. Conclusion. OCD is an issue that requires attention and resolution and Patch test should performed for HCW with suspected cases of contact dermatitis.