The One Health concept: a holistic approach to protect human and environmental health – how does it work in Total Worker Health strategy

Abstract

Human well-being is affected by demographic, geographical, environmental and economic changes in the modern world. Advanced and rapid technological advances have left countries without an adequate structural framework. The One Health concept, rooted in the interconnectedness of human health, animal health and the environment, addresses today’s global health challenges. These include non-communicable and zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, ecosystem degradation and food security. All of these require a holistic approach, bringing together multiple disciplines. Therefore, an exploration of the One Health concept was undertaken, which focuses on the collaboration of professionals from different disciplines, as well as looking at human health in a multi-faceted way. The aim of the study was to explore how the One Health concept could contribute to effective pandemic prevention and a broader holistic understanding of human health. It was also relevant to identify its application in occupational medicine. The narrative review was adopted as the research method of choice. The authors emphasise the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, education and international partnerships in preparing for future health emergencies. Human health should not only be assessed from a medical perspective, but also from an environmental point of view. International cooperation is therefore essential to prepare a unified response to threats and challenges. The system of teaching medical personnel needs to be improved, returning to anthropological assumptions. With zoonotic diseases systematically emerging, health professionals should be as prepared as possible for emergencies. Qualified teams are needed to assess risks and hazards in the workplace in a multidisciplinary manner. An in-depth knowledge of zoonotic pathogen transmission is crucial. The impact of environmental degradation on the immune system must be taken into account. A holistic view of workers’ health is needed, taking into account ecological, environmental, social and economic factors. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2024;75(5):433–444

Keywords

• health promotion
• occupational health
• environment
• sustainable agriculture
• one health
• planetary health