Core Points - The prevention and control of traditional occupational diseases such as pneumoconiosis and noise-induced hearing loss remain challenging, particularly in small and micro enterprises [1][4] - The number of newly reported occupational disease cases in China has significantly decreased from 26,393 in 2013 to 12,087 in 2023, a reduction of 54.2% [2] - New categories of occupational diseases have been added, including occupational musculoskeletal disorders and occupational mental and behavioral disorders, bringing the total number of legally recognized occupational diseases to 12 categories and 135 types [2][3] Group 1: Occupational Health Challenges - The issue of noise exceeding safety standards is still prominent, especially in high-risk industries such as mining and machinery manufacturing [1][4] - The clinical manifestations of new occupational diseases, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, are primarily caused by repetitive tasks and excessive force, leading to nerve damage and pain in the hands [3] - The prevention of noise-induced hearing loss is critical, with the World Health Organization estimating that by 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people will experience varying degrees of hearing loss, with 16% attributed to workplace noise exposure [4][5] Group 2: Regulatory and Preventive Measures - Employers are required to improve processes and equipment, organize work tasks effectively, and reduce the frequency and load of repetitive wrist tasks [3] - Health checks for workers engaged in repetitive wrist activities are mandated, along with the implementation of supportive standards and increased awareness of self-protection among workers [3] - In 2024, the government will conduct on-site testing of occupational disease hazards at 70,000 employers, focusing on 500,000 key positions [4]

Group 1 - The National Health Commission's Occupational Health Division reported that in 2024, nearly 70,000 employers' key positions were subjected to on-site detection for major occupational disease hazards [1] - A total of 500 million patients with respiratory diseases underwent pneumoconiosis screening [1] - Additionally, over 24 million workers received occupational health examinations organized by various localities [1]

Core Points - The 23rd National Occupational Disease Prevention Law Promotion Week is from April 25 to May 1, focusing on caring for workers' occupational health [1] - The National Health Commission emphasizes the importance of the "Occupational Disease Classification and Directory" as a key guideline for protecting workers' health rights [1] - There is a growing demand from workers for expanded occupational health protections due to emerging health issues related to work stress and poor working conditions [1] Summary by Categories - **Occupational Health Challenges** - Work-related musculoskeletal diseases and mental health disorders are identified as new challenges in occupational health [1] - **Regulatory Adjustments** - In December of the previous year, the National Health Commission, in collaboration with relevant departments, adjusted the occupational disease directory, adding two new categories: occupational musculoskeletal diseases and occupational mental and behavioral disorders [1] - The updated directory will officially take effect on August 1 of this year, bringing the total number of legally recognized occupational diseases in China to 12 categories and 135 types [1] - **Alignment with International Standards** - The adjustments to the occupational disease directory are in line with the International Labour Organization and the majority of countries worldwide [1]