maritime medicine

Maritime medicine is the specialized field focused on health issues affecting people at sea, such as sailors, fishermen, and offshore workers. It involves diagnosing and treating medical conditions that occur in the unique environment of ships or remote maritime settings, where immediate healthcare resources are limited. This includes managing illnesses, injuries, mental health concerns, and implementing preventive measures like vaccination and sanitation. Maritime medicine also addresses challenges like the effects of prolonged isolation, extreme weather, and the need for safe evacuation. It combines knowledge of general medicine with the specific demands of the maritime environment to ensure crew health and safety.